Southwest Ontario's Annual Culinary Guide to Local Restaurants, Specialty Shops & Services, Breweries, Wineries, Distilleries, Cideries, Agri-Tourism Attractions & Farmers' Markets, organized by county with maps and detailed information.
CHATHAM-KENT • ELGIN • HURON • LONDON • MIDDLESEX
OXFORD • PERTH • SARNIA-LAMBTON • WINDSOR-ESSEX-PELEE ISLAND
Local Flavour
SOUTHWEST ONTARIO
CULINARY GUIDE
Restaurants • Specialty Shops & Services • Farmers’ Markets
Craft Beer & Local Wine • Agri-Tourism Attractions
eatdrink
The LOCAL Food & Drink Magazine
EXPANDED
EDITION
VOLUME 8
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CHATHAM-KENT • ELGIN • HURON • LONDON • MIDDLESEX
OXFORD • PERTH • SARNIA-LAMBTON • WINDSOR-ESSEX-PELEE ISLAND
Local Flavour
SOUTHWEST ONTARIO
CULINARY GUIDE
Restaurants • Specialty Shops & Services • Farmers’ Markets
Craft Beer & Local Wine • Agri-Tourism Attractions
localflavour.ca
Another quality guide from the publishers of
Think Global. Read Local.
Eatdrink Inc.
525 Huron Street, London ON N5Y 4J6
519-434-8349
Get Connected!
eatdrink.ca
@eatdrinkmag
Published with assistance from the Province of Ontario
and the Southwest Ontario Tourism Corporation
Contents
INTRODUCTION
= map location
4 Southwest Ontario Is Cooking with Local Flavour!
10 map a: southwest ontario
#
LONDON
16 map b: city of london
Restaurants
20 David’s Bistro 1
22 Abruzzi Ristorante 2
24 The River Room / Rhino Lounge 3
26 Craft Farmacy 4
28 The Church Key Bistro-Pub 5
30 Garlic’s of London 6
32 Blackfriars Bistro & Catering 7
34 Grace 8
36 Pizzeria Madre 9
38 Taverna 13thirtyone 10
40 Budapest Restaurant 11
44 La Casa Ristorante 12
45 Black Trumpet 13
46 Edgar and Joe’s Café 14 15
47 Katana Kafé & Grill 16
48 Fellini Koolini’s / The Runt Club 17
49 Joe Kool’s 18
50 Pasto’s Grill 19
51 La Noisette Bakery & Deli 20
52 Marienbad / Chaucer’s Pub 21
53 T.G.’s Addis Ababa Restaurant 22
54 Cream Beanery Cafe 23
Specialty Shops & Services
56 The Pristine Olive Tasting Bar 24
58 The Boombox Bakeshop 25
60 Marshall’s Pasta 26
62 Hey, Cupcake! 27
63 Jill’s Table 28
MIDDLESEX COUNTY
65 map c: middlesex county
66 The Clock Tower 29
68 Fat Olive 30
70 Heeman’s 31
72 Slegers Organic Greens 32
74 The Village Teapot 33
75 Cream Beanery Cafe 34
OXFORD COUNTY
79 map d: oxford county
80 SixThirtyNine 35
82 Early Bird Coffee 36
PERTH COUNTY
83 map e: perth county
84 Planet Diner 37
86 Edison’s Café Bar 38
88 Revival House 39
90 The Mill Stone Restaurant & Bar 40
92 Watson’s Chelsea Bazaar 41
94 Anna Mae’s Bakery & Café 42
95 The Hub 43
96 Rhéo Thompson Candies 44
97 Olive Your Favourites 45
HURON COUNTY
99 map f: huron county
100 Hessenland Inn 46
102 Eddington’s of Exeter 47
103 Benmiller Inn & Spa 48
SARNIA-LAMBTON
105 map g: lambton county
108 Munro Honey & Meadery 49
109 F.I.N.E. A Restaurant 50
WINDSOR-ESSEX-PELEE ISLAND
111 map h: essex county
CHATHAM-KENT
115 map i: kent county
116 Sunshine Farms 51
118 Dockside Fisheries 52
120 The Chilled Cork 53
121 Mamma Maria’s Ristorante 54
122 Roesch Meats and More 55
ELGIN COUNTY
123 map j: elgin county
124 The Windjammer Inn 56
126 From the Meadow 57
128 Great Lakes Farms 58
LOCAL WINE
154 Alton Farms Estate Winery 74
156 Oxley Estate Winery 75
158 Sprucewood Shores Estate
Winery 76
160 CREW: Colchester Ridge Estate
Winery 77
162 Pelee Island Winery 78 79
164 Colio Estate Wines 80
166 Early Estates Winery 81
CIDERIES & DISTILLERIES
168 Twin Pines Orchards
& Cider House 82
170 Junction 56 Distillery 83
171 Wolfhead Distillery 84
FARMERS’ MARKETS
173 Covent Garden Market 85
176 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
130 Toboggan Brewing Co. 59
132 Anderson Craft Ales 60
134 Railway City Brewing Co. 61
136 Upper Thames Brewing Co.
& Brickhouse Brewpub 62 63
138 The Grove Hotel & Brew House 64
140 Storm Stayed Brewing Co. 65
142 The Tin Fiddler & River Run Brew Co. 66
144 Imperial City Brew House 67
146 Cowbell Brewing Co. 68
148 Shakespeare Brewing Co. 69
149 The Blue Elephant Craft Brew House 70
150 London Brewing 71
151 Hamlet Hall Brew Co. 72
152 Jobsite Brewing Co. 73
Amenities Legend
— Licenced
— Wheelchair Accessible
— Seasonal Patio
— Take-Out Available
— Hands-On Experiences
Available
— Accommodations
Available
INTRODUCTION
Southwest Ontario
is Cooking with
Local Flavour!
BY BRYAN LAVERY
THE REAL TASTE OF A PLACE is rooted in the lay of the
land, and Southwest Ontario tells the story of its terroir
with pride. From hospitable small towns to sophisticated
cities, to the agricultural attractions of rural hamlets and
the fresh catch from lakeside villages, Southwest Ontario
is a place where each destination boasts
a unique perspective through its culinary
practitioners and the experiences they
provide. In a region celebrated for its
farmers’ markets, food hubs, culinary
artisans, local wineries, distilleries
and craft beer culture, it’s no surprise
that food innovators and visionaries
abound. Authentic artisanal goods can’t
be mass-produced — they are limited
in quantity and generally have specific
characteristics deemed to be special by
nature. You’ll find nspiring independent
businesses and producers of hand-crafted, small-batch,
made-from-scratch food and beverages around every
corner while exploring Southwest Ontario’s vibrant
gastronomic scene.
Hospitality and the culinary arts are integral
aspects of Southwest Ontario’s identity. Exceptional
restaurants, talented homegrown and internationally
trained chefs, boutique shops, markets and gourmet
food and drink retailers make this a “must visit”
destination for those seeking authentic culinary
experiences. An eclectic mix of socially-conscious
professionals in agricultural and artisanal production
bring the latest in epicurean innovation to the
table. Today’s modern restaurants are about feasting,
The Church Key Bistro-Pub
Twin Pines Orchards & Cider House
The Boombox Bakeshop
4 localflavour.ca INTRODUCTION Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
INTRODUCING THE
next crop
OF FOODIE EXPERIENCES
Take some of Canada’s most productive farmland and fresh
water and add a generous helping of families who are passionately
committed to producing world-class products in the region they
adventures that are truly one of a kind.
In Ontario’s
farm-to-table cuisine around every corner and friendly folks who
The Next Stop: Taste video series will show you unforgettable food,
wine, craft brewery and farm-to-table experiences. No matter what
corner of Ontario’s Southwest you travel to, there is a full crop of
farmers, chefs and producers ready to share the delicious fruits of
their labours.
OntariosSouthwest.com
sharing, authenticity, embracing quality ingredients and
celebrating the craft and tradition of farmers, chefs, and
local winemakers, craft brewers, cideries, and distilleries.
Whether you’re dining in one of the
chef-driven, farm-to-table restaurants,
sipping wine at a vineyard, visiting
one of the region’s many craft
breweries or visiting an agri-tourism
attraction — all beautifully connected
by well maintained country roads
— you will find that the food and
drink scene in Southwest Ontario is
a hotbed of talent. The range and
choices in culinary styles reflect
cultural diversity and fulfill the
increased consumer desire for quality
food and drink experiences that distinguish themselves
with innovation, authenticity and tradition.
The coffee drinker’s thirst for artisanal roasts with
diverse flavour profiles is matched by small-batch
coffee roasters with a passion for fairly-traded,
environmentally-responsible, and ethically-sourced
coffee beans. Tea drinkers are equally well served by the
outstanding coffeehouses, tea lounges, restaurants and
culinary retailers all around the region.
Uncork a new winemaking world by visiting awardwinning
wineries nestled in and around Southwest
Ontario’s coasts. The North Shore Lake Erie Wine Route
is well established and the emerging Huron Shores
Wine Region is already building
a strong reputation for similarly
exciting tours and tastings.
Enjoy the widely assorted flavour
profiles and subtleties of the local
craft beer phenomenon. There are
a number of beloved, locally-owned
small-batch brewers dedicated to
making exceptional craft beer with
unique local twists. Beer enthusiasts
will find everything from established
signature brews to one-off seasonal
beers. Paying homage to the hard work of our local
farmers and integrating their bounty, our local craft
brewers are flourishing. Their fresh creativity and new
flavour profiles are establishing deep customer loyalty,
Fellini Koolini’s
Great Lakes Farms
Hessenland Inn
6 localflavour.ca INTRODUCTION Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
JOIN US ON THE
SECOND FLOOR!
WE SPEAK
THE GOOD FOOD
LANGUAGE
Come in and enjoy our delicious,
seasonally created menu.
519-430-6414
Call for reservations
/Blakes2ndFloor
¦
not only to the products they are offering, but to the
brewers themselves. Our forward-thinking craft brewers
are creating meaningful and lasting onsite
experiences.
Southwest Ontario is home to a
strong community of innovators and
proponents of “experiential tourism”
— the burgeoning movement in which
locals and visitors enjoy meaningful
and inherently personal experiences by
appreciating cultural nuance through
interactive and authentic encounters.
The dialogue between growers and
producers on the one hand, with
chefs and restaurateurs on the other, has led to the
development of new culinary tourism experiences
while enhancing a sustainable food culture. Go behind
the scenes and take part in professionally guided
experiences or workshops with an insider, tailored and
customized to allow one-on-one and group interactions.
Indulge all your senses by partaking in a hands-on
experience with a craftsperson or a local culinary expert
or take a self-guided tour along one of the many awardwinning
culinary trails. Southwest Ontario’s interactive
experiences engage participants by involving artisans,
cheesemakers, chocolatiers, craft brewers, winemakers,
craft distillers, coffee roasters, tea sommeliers, chefs,
farmers, foragers and fishers.
While the farm-to-table ethos
has evolved into a mainstream food
movement, the trend for buying
and eating local continues to
evolve and deepen. You’ll discover
dozens of outstanding examples in
the following pages. We’re proud
to show off our regional food
heritage and the diversity of choices
available. Enjoy your authentic
tastes of Southwest Ontario!
BRYAN LAVERY, Eatdrink Food Editor and Writer at Large, brings years
of professional experience in the restaurant and hospitality business
as a chef, restaurateur and partner in the Lavery Culinary Group, a
culinary experience and consulting business. Always on the lookout
for stories Eatdrink should be telling, he helps shape the magazine
both under his byline and behind the scenes.
Planet Diner
The River Room
Garlic’s of London
8 localflavour.ca INTRODUCTION Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Heather's
Incomparable Journeys
Travel the slow roads to charming tidy
towns, music-filled pubs, ancient tombs
and castles. We take time to enjoy
leisurely walks, gourmet food and
welcoming country hotels. You won’t
find another itinerary like it.
Explore the splendour of Lake Como,
Undiscovered Umbria, Amazing
Amalfi Coast, Hilltowns of Calabria,
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For any and all of your travel needs
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Huron
LAKE HURON
Perth
MICHIGAN
Port Huron
Sarnia-Lambton
Middlesex
London
Elgin
Detroit
Windsor
LAKE ST CLAIR
Chatham-Kent
Windsor-Essex-
Pelee Island
3
10 localflavour.ca INTRODUCTION Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Map A — SOUTHWEST ONTARIO
Toronto
Toronto
Toronto
Guelph
Guelph
Guelph
Waterloo
Waterloo
Waterloo
Cambridge
Kitchener
Cambridge
Kitchener
Cambridge
Kitchener
LAKE LAKE ONTARIO
LAKE ONTARIO ONTARIO
Oxford Oxford
Oxford
Hamilton
Hamilton
Hamilton
Niagara
Niagara Falls
Niagara
Falls
Falls
Norfolk Norfolk
Norfolk
Buffalo
Buffalo
Buffalo
LAKE LAKE ERIE
LAKE ERIE ERIE
NEW NEW YORK
NEW YORK YORK
OHIO OHIO
OHIO
PENNSYLVANIA
PENNSYLVANIA
PENNSYLVANIA
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
INTRODUCTION
localflavour.ca 11
a
movement
for
restaurants
who believe
local food
matters.
•
®
A Feast On® Certification means
you’re fighting the good food fight.
You’re supporting our farmers
and putting local food first.
To get certified, visit:
ONTARIOCULINARY.COM
@ONTARIOCULINARY #FEASTON
12 localflavour.ca INTRODUCTION Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
WIN
A LOCAL FLAVOUR
OVERNIGHT TRIP
to
CHATHAM-KENT
A Luxurious Road Trip
for Two!
Use of a beautiful Lexus automobile
Accommodations at the Retro Suites Hotel
Wine Tasting at Early Acres Estate Winery
• Dinner for two at Mamma Maria’s Ristorante
Go to localflavour.ca/contests to enter and for complete details.
Southwest Contest Ontario runs until Culinary September Guide 1, 2020. Dates INTRODUCTION
are subject to availability. Prize has localflavour.ca no cash value. 13
London Restaurants
Amenities Legend
— Licenced
— Wheelchair Accessible
— Seasonal Patio
— Take-Out Available
— Hands-On Experiences
Available
— Accommodations
Available
Photo by Alieska Robles
GARLIC’S OF LONDON
481 Richmond St.
garlicsoflondon.com • 519-432-4092
DAVID’S BISTRO
432 Richmond St.
davidsbistro.ca • 519-667-0535
TOBOGGAN BREWING CO.
585 Richmond St.
tobogganbrewing.com • 519-433-2337
THE CHURCH KEY BISTRO-PUB
476 Richmond St.
thechurchkey.ca • 519-936-0960
JOE KOOL’S
595 Richmond St.
joekoolsrestaurant.ca • 519-663-5665
London
Map B — LONDON
HWY. 4
FANSHAWE PARK RD. W.
10
GAINSBOROUGH RD.
SARNIA RD.
MEDWAY CREEK
WESTERN RD.
University of
Western Ontario
VICTORIA ST.
27
OXFORD ST.
C.P.R.
RICHMOND ST.
BOLER RD.
SANITORIUM RD.
BYRON BASELINE
COLONEL TALBOT RD.
HYDE PARK RD.
THAMES RIVER
RIVERSIDE DRIVE
WONDERLAND RD.
C.N.R.
SPRINGBANK DR.
4
Blackfriars Bridge is
closed to vehicles.
Access Blackfriars Bistro
off Wharncliffe Rd.
65
WHARNCLIFFE RD. S.
ELMWOOD AVE.
EMERY ST.
BASELINE RD.
BLACKFRIARS ST.
STANLEY
WORTLEY
7
3
RIDOUT ST.
28
TALBOT ST.
BELGRAVE
18 59
17 13 5
21 6
CARLING
85
12
2
RICHMOND ST.
1 8
14
GR
HWY. 4
23
COUNTY RD. 2 & HWY.4 WEST
EXETER ROAD
SOUTHDALE RD.
COUNTY RD. 2
HWY. 402
EXIT 177
19
EXIT 183
EXI
16 localflavour.ca
FANSHAWE PARK RD. E.
WINDERMERE RD.
THAMES RIVER
FANSHAWE LAKE
HURON ST.
HURON ST.
WELLINGTON ST.
H
15
9
WATERLOO ST.
SOUTH
COLBORNE ST.
11
ST.
MAITLAND ST.
DUFFERIN AVE.
22
HORTON ST.
SIMCOE ST.
WILLIAM ST.
ADELAIDE ST.
KING ST.
YORK ST.
ADELAIDE ST.
24
PICCADILLY ST.
26
25
RECTORY ST.
20
OXFORD ST.
CENTRAL AVE.
QUEENS AVE.
DUNDAS ST.
Western
Fairgrounds
FLORENCE ST.
EGERTON ST.
QUEBEC ST.
60
71
HIGHBURY AVE.
FIRST ST.
FANSHAWE
COLLEGE
SECOND ST.
POTTERSBURG CREEK
THIRD ST.
CLARKE RD.
OXFORD ST. E.
TRAFALGAR ST.
VETERANS MEMORIAL PARKWAY
CRUMLIN SIDE RD.
16
AND AVE. WESTON ST.
HIGH ST.
?
COMMISSIONERS RD.
THOMPSON RD.
POND MILLS RD.
HIGHBURY AVE.
HAMILTON RD.
THAMES RIVER
GORE RD.
RIVER RD.
WELLINGTON RD.
MACDONALD-CARTIER FREEWAY
T 186
HWY. 401
WILTON GROVE RD.
EXIT 189
EXIT 194
WESTMINSTER DRIVE
SCOTLAND DRIVE
localflavour.ca 17
DISCOVER LONDON’S DISTRICTS
DUNDAS
PLACE
Community
at its core
REBEL REMEDY HEALTH BAR
242 Dundas St.
rebelremedy.com • 519-709-2782
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PLANT MATTER BISTRO
244 Dundas St.
plantmatterbistro.com • 519-432-3663
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CHE RESTOBAR
225 Dundas St.
cherestobar.ca • 519-601-7999
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
GRACE
215 Dundas St.
gracelondon.ca • 226-667-4822
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
THAIFOON
120 Dundas St.
thaifoonrestaurant.com • 519-850-1222
For more Food & Drink in London, visit:
LONDONTOURISM.CA
DISCOVER LONDON’S DISTRICTS
OLD EAST
VILLAGE
Eat. Shop. Play
UNIQUE FOOD ATTITUDES
697 Dundas St.
unique-food-attitudes.com • 519-649-2225
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
THE ROOT CELLAR
623 Dundas St.
rootcellarorganic.ca • 519-719-7675
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
THE MARKET AT THE WESTERN FAIR
900 King St.
westernfairdistrict.com • 519-438-7203
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
THE BOOMBOX BAKESHOP
520 Adelaide St. N.
theboomboxbakeshop.com • 519-488-0384
For more Food & Drink in London, visit:
LONDONTOURISM.CA
London’s Oasis
for Food Lovers!
DAVID’S BISTRO
One of Downtown London’s culinary landmarks for
over 20 years, David's Bistro is truly “an oasis for
food lovers.” Professional, friendly service is provided
by owner David Chapman (centre), his wife Cindy
Kinsella (second from the left), and his daughter,
Manager Natalie Chapman (second from the right).
Chef Elvis Drennan (far right) leads an exceptional
kitchen staff, including Sous Chef Rick Hunt (far left)
and line cook Andrew Woolcox-Howe (far back).
20
Daily Prix Fixe Specials
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
The Scene
David’s Bistro, a classic French
bistro, was opened in 1998 by David
Chapman. After being chef and then
chef/owner of Anthony’s Seafood
Bistro (a local landmark at the time)
for 18 years, Chapman decided to
reinvent himself. His traditional
bistro, with its small bar and vibrant
red walls, is a venerated downtown
London culinary anchor. The classic
bistro motif perfectly matches the
traditional approach to service and
attention to detail.
Menu Highlights
Owner David Chapman and Chef
Elvis Drennan, who has helmed the kitchen and a talented kitchen staff for
a number of years, present perfectly executed classic regional Frenchinspired
specialties. The emphasis is on authentic country cuisine with
high quality, primarily seasonal, local ingredients. Chapman and Drennan
are long-time proponents of the philosophy that simplicity, seasonality and
purity are the hallmarks of good cooking.
Chalkboard prix-fixe menus change daily, in tune with the seasons and
the availability of special items. So too does the interesting wine list vary,
always with a range of carefully selected
consignment wines listed on a separate
blackboard, augmenting regular
favourites. Classic Bistro Fare at David’s
includes the highly recommended:
• Pan roasted Halibut with zucchini,
sweetydrop pepper and pea ragoût
and saffron cream sauce;
• Braised Spring Lamb Shank with
hominy grits and mint gremolata;
• Grilled Rack of Venison with ricotta
gnocchi, boar bacon and red wine
jus;
• Duck Leg Confit with lingonberry
jus, rösti potato and asparagus;
• An innovative dessert selection,
all made in house.
The Bar
LONDON
London
Classic Bistro
432 Richmond Street (at Carling)
MAP B p16: 1 519-667-0535
LUNCH: WED–FRI 11:30 am–2:30 pm
DINNER: MON–SUN 5 pm–10 pm
LUNCH: $14– $18
DINNER: $28 – $36
prix fixe menu changes daily
2 Courses: $28
3 Courses: $32
www.davidsbistro.ca
Classic French Bistro Fare
Daily Prix Fixe Choices
Excellent Wine List, Available
by Glass or Bottle
Dark Chocolate Torchon
Asparagus & Edamame Salad
Grilled Tuna with Risotto Noir
localflavour.ca 21
Italian Inspired ...
Locally Focused
ABRUZZI
Co-owners Rob D’Amico and Chef
Dave Lamers have lifted Abruzzi into
the top echelon of London restaurants,
serving Italian-inspired modern and
traditional regional specialties. As host
and chef, respectively, each brings
a polished professionalism to their
Downtown epicurean hotspot.
22
The Scene
Abruzzi is well-groomed but casual,
with an elegant white marble bar just
inside the front entrance. There is an
elevated communal table in the centre
of the dining room that seats eight. The
simple, striking decor with bare brick
walls and lots of mirrors, the innovative
lighting, and the friendly ambience are
all central to the Abruzzi experience.
The service is attentive, polished and
knowledgeable.
Menu Highlights
Chef Dave Lamers takes the earthy
Italian culinary vocabulary and imbues
it with both his idiosyncratic style and a culinary dialect that is responsive
to the seasons. Abruzzi is Feast ON-certified and won a Gold Medal
Innovation Award from Food Day Canada for its consistent commitment
to using local ingredients. Lamers stresses simplicity and freshness as
foundations of the Abruzzi kitchen philosophy and the menu offerings
capture the essence of Italian cooking. They are intuitive, often iconic,
prepared with quality sustainable ingredients and executed with skill and
an eye to detail. Signature dishes include:
• Grilled Loco Fields Peach Salad with toasted hazelnuts, arugula,
ricotta salata and Niagara Chardonnay & honey vinaigrette;
• Crispy Pork Belly & Bay Scallops with
charred Loco Fields carrots, carrot
purée, kale & spiced jus;
• Ricotta Gnudi with Brussels sprouts,
leeks, shallots, house lamb pancetta,
honey mushrooms & sage brown butter;
• Grilled Beef Tenderloin with crispy
gnocchi, mushrooms, spinach, green
beans,red wine & veal stock reduction;
• Sous Vide Cauliflower “Steak” with
beluga lentils, roasted fennel, charred
red onion Brussels sprouts, fennel hot
sauce, onion, thyme & white bean purée;
Duo of Venison
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
• S’Mores — dark chocolate brownie,
torched marshmallow crème, fudge
sauce, vanilla gelato & graham crumble.
LONDON
The Bar
London
Italian-inspired
Farm-to-Table
119 King Street (at Talbot)
MAP B p16: 2 519-675-9995
HOURS: MON–SAT 11:30 am – LATE
closed sunday
LUNCH: $10– $25
DINNER: $14 – $42
abruzzi.ca
Superior Wine List Includes
Interesting Consignments
Award-Winning Commitment to
Local Sustainable Ingredients
House-Cured Pancetta &
Assorted Charcuterie
Menus Change Seasonally
Italian Regional Specialties
Steps to Budweiser Gardens
Grilled Beef Tenderloin
Seared Sea Scallops & Pork Belly
Rhubarb Cake & Housemade Gelato
localflavour.ca 23
11
Lo
51
w
Inspired Cuisine at
The Forks of the Thames
THE RIVER ROOM Café & Private Dining
RHINO LOUNGE Bakery & Coffee Shoppe
Owners Jess Jazey-Spoelstra and
Harmen Spoelstra opened The River
Room and put Museum London on the
local dining map. This exceptional lunch
and brunch spot reflects Jess’ culinary
philosophy “to create exceptional food
at reasonable prices,” with lots of New
York-style bravado. Since 2014, the
stylish Rhino Lounge Bakery & Coffee
Shoppe has been know for its sleek
ambience, creative menu, specialty
coffees and outstanding baked goods.
24
Chef Jeff Fortner
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
The Scene
The River Room offers
outstanding food and
service in a stunning
space with fabulous
views of the The Forks
of the Thames and the
old courthouse. Jess
Jazey-Spoelstra’s
sophisticated design
sensibility is reflected
in the cuisine as well
as the stylish and relaxed interior. The ambience is warm and friendly, with
glass, leather and linen textural elements. There is an attractive curved bar at
the entrance and photos pay homage to New York City.
Menu Highlights
At lunch, Chef Jeff Fortner and his team’s features include Pan Roasted
Salmon with miso-honey sauce, soba noodles, scallion, julienned carrot
and tomato. The East Coast Lobster Roll with celery, scallion, mayo and
topsider bun quickly became a signature dish. House Cured Smoked Trout
with toasted naan, house crackers, crème fraîche and accoutrements.
Über Pastry Chef Michele Lenhardt brings dessert offerings at both
locations to a new level. Decadent Chocolate Cake with fudge frosting
and Carrot Cake with cream cheese icing are classics, as are her Apple
Fritters with salted caramel sauce. Try the River Room’s signature Vanilla
Bean Crème Brûlée and the Rhino’s Brookies (brownie meets cookie)
and the popular Cronut Thursdays. The Rhino caters to different diets,
and has developed vegan takes on such
classics as Mac ’n’ Cheese, Sausage Rolls,
Cheesecake and Dutchies.
The River Room’s prix fixe Brunch menu
($28) features a dozen dishes, including:
• Cobb Salad with grilled chicken, bacon,
blue cheese, hard-boiled egg and
chopped tomato & cucumbers.
• Oeufs en Meurette — two soft poached
eggs in red wine sauce with Cipollini
onions, bacon lardons and roasted
potatoes.
• Maitake & Potato Skillet, with boudin
blanc, leek, zucchini, fried egg and toast.
Pastry Chef
Michele Lenhardt
LONDON
London
Contemporary
Casual Fine Dining
& Café
421 Ridout Street North
(within Museum London)
MAP B p16: 3 519-850-2287
HOURS: TUES–FRI 11:30 am–3 pm
SUNDAY 11:30 am–3 pm
Open for Dinner during Londonlicious
LUNCH: $9– $22
BRUNCH: $28 Prix Fixe
theriverroom.ca
Daily Lunch Specials
Meeting Room Amenities Available
Open Evenings for Private Dining
THE RHINO LOUNGE 519-850-5111
HOURS: TUES–WED 11:30 am–4:30 pm
THURS 11:30 am–8:30 pm
FRI–SUN 11:30 am–4:30 pm
Open Evenings for Private Events
Meeting Room Amenities Available
Cronut Thursdays
Smoked Salmon & Potato Latkes
Lemon Tart with Raspberry Purée
Cronut Thursdays at Rhino Lounge
localflavour.ca 25
Dispensing Deliciousness
CRAFT FARMACY
Jess Jazey-Spoelstra (of North Moore Catering
and The River Room) partnered with über chef
Andrew Wolwowicz to create Craft Farmacy,
London’s local craft beer and oyster bar. The
name refers to Craft, as in an activity involving
skill in making things by hand, and Farmacy,
which relates to the “farm” and the “sea.”
26
Stylish Interior with Fireplace
Executive Chef
Andrew Wolwowicz
with puffball mushroom
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
The Scene
Jess Jazey-Spoelstra and Chef Andrew
Wolwowicz deliver style and comfort
with attention to the smallest details at
Craft Farmacy. Setting the tone in the
dining room is an ample repurposed bar,
stunning fireplace, custom-made leather
banquettes and repurposed tables with
comfortable strapped-back bentwoodstyle
chairs. The servers’ customdesigned
leather aprons by Coakley’s
are another example of a keen eye for
detail. There is private event space with
room for 40 on the second floor.
Menu Highlights
Chef/co-owner Andrew Wolwowicz is a
local pioneer of the ethical farm-to-table movement, promoting the four
pillars of sustainability: cultural vibrancy,
economic prosperity, environmental
responsibility and social justice. Craft
Farmacy is a Feast ON-certified “Taste of
Ontario” restaurant. Working with Jazey-
Spoelstra to create the menus, Chef cooks
with skill and dedication, aided by his
talented sous chef Kyle Trafford and a team
of apprentices.
Dishes are progressive and rustic in style,
featuring high-quality ingredients crafted from
local, region-specific and specialty products,
Roasted Half Chicken
and executed with aptitude, innovation and
attention to detail. Recommendations
Confit of Duck
with Pork Belly
include: Roasted Bone Marrow with oxtail
marmalade; Duck Poutine with house-cut
fries, duck demi, shredded duck confit,
local cheese curds and scallions; Crispy
Frog Legs with potatoes, brown butter and
chilies; and a Roasted Half Chicken with a
locally-crafted sour beer and butter sauce.
A raw bar features a fresh Shellfish
Tower, Shrimp Cocktail and a changing
selection of six to nine East Coast
oyster varieties with fresh horseradish,
mignonette sauce and hot sauce.
LONDON
London
Craft Beer &
Oyster Bar
449 Wharncliffe Rd S (N of Baseline)
MAP B p16: 4 519-914-2699
HOURS: TUES–THURS 11:30am–11pm
FRIDAY 11:30 am–12 am
SATURDAY 12 noon–12 am
SUNDAY 11 am–11 pm
closed mondays
LUNCH: $12– $22
APPS: $12– $20
DINNER: $20– $38
BRUNCH: $27 Prix Fixe
@craftfarmacy
London’s Premier Oyster Bar
Extensive Craft Beer Selection
Fireplace & Welcoming Ambience
Ample Free Parking
Private Rooms Available
Seafood Tower & Oysters
Blackboard Menu Updated Daily
localflavour.ca 27
Craft Beer & Modern
Pub Fare with Flair
THE CHURCH KEY BISTRO-PUB
The Church Key is your destination pub, whether you’re looking for
an impressive selection of craft beers or a pub meal with flair. Owners
Pete and Vanessa Willis have nearly 50 years combined experience
in the restaurant industry. The opening of The Church Key in May of
2009 was the culmination of a longtime dream. “We are definitely pub
people,” says Vanessa. “We like an uncomplicated place where you
can talk and have good food and beer and wine.”
28
London
The Bar
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
The Scene
Warm and comfortable, with a
pleasing combination of brick,
stone and wood, The Church Key
is an extensively renovated pub
in a prominent Richmond Row
heritage building across from The
Grand Theatre. An intimate outdoor
courtyard flanks the south
side of the building.
Menu Highlights
The Church Key follows in the
British tradition of the gastro pub by
specializing in traditional food done
with gourmet flair. Chef Michael
Anglestad, with over 20 years in
fine dining, uses seasonal, locally
sourced ingredients extensively.
Try the Ploughman’s Plate,
great as a meal or a shared
appetizer, with English cheeses,
crusty bread, paté, smoked salmon, duck breast bacon, branston pickle,
pickled quail eggs and vegetables. Or start with Salmon Wrapped
Scallops — sea scallops wrapped in house-smoked salmon, drizzled with
grapefruit and rice wine syrup and togarashi aioli.
Entrée favourites include the famous Church Key Burger, a traditional
Fish & Chips, Lamb Curry — lamb braised in mild ginger curry sauce on
seasoned rice with cucumber raita and fresh cilantro.
• The Game of the Week: This popular feature changes every week, as Chef
creates a unique dish that showcases a different variety of game meat.
• Sunday Brunch begins with a large basket of baked pastries, such
as fresh croissants,
almond cheesecake
Danish, or sweet
potato & pumpkin
seed bread, all baked
fresh by Pastry Chef
Cliff Briden. Then
enjoy a choice of five
different brunch entrée
items. The menu is
different every week!
LONDON
Farm-to-Table
Bistro-Pub
476 Richmond Street (N of Queens)
MAP B p16: 5 519-936-0960
HOURS: MON & TUES 11:30 am–10 pm
WED & THURS 11:30 am–11 pm
FRI & SAT 11:30 am–12 am
SUN 11 am–10 pm
LUNCH: $11 – $17
DINNER: $18 – $30
thechurchkey.ca
Across from The Grand Theatre
Vegetarian Options
Sunday Brunch 11 am–2 pm
Game Meat of the Week Specials
Food Served Late!
Heritage Building Charm
Across from the Grand Theatre
Inviting Courtyard Patio
localflavour.ca 29
Ethical, Seasonal,
Regional Cuisine
GARLIC’S OF LONDON
Celebrating a passion for food, wine and service,
Garlic’s of London offers traditionally prepared
high-quality food with a modern edge. The Garlic
Fettucinne in this photo typifies this London
landmark’s approach to top-of-the-line rustic cooking,
using quality seasonal and local ingredients.
30
The Scene
The unique artistic atmosphere of this restaurant’s dining room exhibits its
deeply-rooted connections with the city. Exposed brick walls display local
artist Steve Tracy’s paintings and posters from the Grand Theatre. A handcrafted
metal garlic sculpture
holds the menu (which
changes monthly) by the door.
For over 25 years, Garlic’s
has been a popular dining
destination. Open seven
days a week, a professional
Owner Edin “Edo” Pehilj
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
staff will welcome you for an
intimate gathering, leisurely
Sunday Brunch, business
meeting or special celebration. The Garlic’s team ensures you have an
exceptional experience with gracious service, warm ambience, distinguished
wines and a carefully crafted, seasonally-inspired menu.
Menu Highlights
Garlic’s of London menus stand out with a transcendent synergy between
authentic, chef-driven culinary craftsmanship and meticulously procured
components, enhanced through contemporary twists on time-honoured
traditions. An early crusader in
the farm-to-table movement,
Garlic’s cooking has a thoughtful,
respectful edge and is made from
scratch with inspiration from local
products, elevated by freshlyharvested
seasonal ingredients.
Head Chef Alex Martin
believes cooking is not just a
full-time job; it is something
ingrained in his being, and an integral part of his personal creative expression.
He presents memorable dishes that are sophisticated and intriguing,
showcasing his ingenuity with ingredients and passion for enticing flavours. The
carefully crafted menu reflects
a rustic yet modern flair, with
high-quality ingredients from
Canadian farmers. Bread is
baked daily from scratch; pastas
and desserts are all housemade.
Enjoy the skillfully curated
wine list, an interesting
Whiskey Chai LatteCharcuterie Board
Head Chef Alex Martin
cocktail selection and local
craft beers available on tap.
LONDON
London
Farm-to-Table Dining
481 Richmond Street (S of Dufferin)
MAP B p16: 6 519-432-4092
HOURS: MON–FRI 11:30 am–10 pm
SAT 11 am–11 pm
SUN 11 am–10 pm
subject to change seasonally
LUNCH: $10 – $28
DINNER: $10 – $38
garlicsoflondon.com
Beside The Grand Theatre
Upscale Rustic Cuisine
Seasonal Ingredients
Naturally-Raised Meats
Menu Changes Monthly
Seasonal Cocktails
P.E.I. Mussels
Housemade Desserts
localflavour.ca 31
Chef-Driven
Farm-to-Table Bistro
BLACKFRIARS
BISTRO & CATERING
Farm fresh food prepared on site allows
the talented Blackfriars team led by
owner Betty Heydon to provide guests
with seasonal meals geared to their
individual needs. The casually elegant
bistro provides cutting edge flavours
with a respect for culinary traditions.
This same attention to detail and personalized
menu planning are hall marks of
Blackfriars’ full service catering.
32
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
The Scene
Blackfriars offers a deliciously
artistic setting minutes from
downtown London. The central
location and ample parking
make this the perfect meeting
place for a culinary adventure.
Upbeat, knowledgeable staff
are your first introduction to
Blackfriars. The bistro’s intimate
size and style allow for perfect
closed room parties. Don’t
let size fool you! Blackfriars has a strong reputation as one of London’s
premier caterers. A powerhouse culinary team showcases prodigious individual
talents with farm fresh menus augmented by creative daily specials.
Menu Highlights
Innovative seasonal menus are elegantly handwritten by restaurateur
Betty Heydon, who has presided over Blackfriars for more than 23 years.
A large blackboard covers one wall, featuring daily seasonal creations
by Blackfriars’ talented chefs. There you’ll also find an ever-changing
beverage list; Blackfriars has been a leader in providing well-chosen craft
beer and consignment wines to enhance a full bar selection, including
daily signature cocktails. Blackfriars features small plates at dinner for
lighter dining, and honours special dietary needs and plant-based diets.
Recommendations might include:
• LUNCH — Nona Bridget’s Beef Tenderloin Medallion on a forest
mushroom & sun dried tomato risotto with seasonal vegetable and
Parmigiano cheese; Blackfriars signature Stilton & Port Cheesecake
with grilled chicken, heritage greens, warm pomegranate molasses
vinaigrette and grilled garlic baguette;
Soba Noodle Salad Bowl with tofu or
with chicken with spicy peanut sauce,
julienned vegetables, Napa cabbage,
toasted peanuts, mango, herbs and
candied ginger.
• DINNER — Smoky Jack BBQ Pulled
Short Rib Tacos with pickled onion,
cilantro & shredded greens; Kafta
Spiced Metzger’s Pork Tenderloin
Medallions on a zucchini lemon ricotta
Triple Layer Belgian
Chocolate with Ganache
Seasonal Goodness
from Betty’s Garden
cake with cucumber mint raita; Sweet
and Spicy Pork Belly on sweet potato
purée with kimchi.
LONDON
London
Contemporary
Bistro & Caterer
46 Blackfriars St. (Off Wharncliffe)
MAP B p16: 7 519-667-4930
LUNCH: MON–FRI 11:30 am–2:30 pm
DINNER: MON–SAT 5 pm–10 pm
open saturday afternoons and
sundays for private parties only
blackfriarsbistro.com
Changing Daily Specials
Reservations by Phone Only
Enter off Wharncliffe Road
Ample Free Parking
TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence
Closed Room Parties Available
Dietary Needs Accommodated
Bistro & Catering
Artistic Intimate Atmosphere
Daily Blackboard Features
Beef Tenderloin
localflavour.ca 33
Conscious
Canadian Cuisine
GRACE
Grace is not your average fine dining
restaurant. Named after Grace
Murphy, grandmother of Executive
Chef Angie Murphy, Grace is a new
kind of intentional restaurant that
prioritizes not only beautiful, seasonal,
local food but also community, social
responsibility, and industry fairness.
34
Sous Chefs Cody Tanner-Slater
and Kyle Newman
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
The Scene
Located on the ground floor
of a yellow-bricked heritage
building, Grace brings strong
elements of modernity and
sophistication to the old core
of Downtown London. Two
walls of full-height windows
provide generous natural
light by day and reflect the
comforting interior at night.
Revel in the inviting lounge
area or the sophisticated
dining room with plush booths
and flowing artwork and watch the magic happen in the open kitchen. A
private dining room for up to eight guests is also available by request.
Menu Highlights
Fundamentally, Grace is a restaurant about food made from fine
ingredients, with artistry and a dedication to excellence. The Modern
Canadian cuisine draws on classic French tradition and technique, infused
with global influences. Honesty, integrity, community and connection are
the values behind each plate. The menu changes frequently to showcase
the freshest local ingredients.
If you’re looking for an exceptional experience, this is the perfect setting
for a five (or seven, or ten) course tasting menu with wine pairings. Relax in
the lounge with a signature cocktail or choose from the curated beer and
wine selections. Grace also offers late-night snacks after your downtown
concert or trip to the theatre.
Recommendations include:
• House Ricotta with toasted
chillies, stone fruit, pistachios,
sweet olive oil and toast;
• Deviled Aylmer Shrimp
with smoked tomato, sweet
potato, green apple, cured
egg yolk, mustard greens and
poppy seeds;
• McIntosh Farms Duck Breast
Co-owner & Executive
Chef Angie Murphy
with creamed corn, pickled
tomatillos, ground cherries
and plum jus.
LONDON
London
Contemporary
Canadian
215 Dundas Street (at Clarence)
MAP B p16: 8 226-667-4822
DINNER: WED–SAT from 5 pm
SUN 6 pm–8 pm
LUNCH: THURS & FRI 11:30 am–2 pm
BRUNCH: SUNDAY 11:30 am–2 pm
gracelondon.ca
Farm-to-Table Menus
Craft Cocktails
Private Room Available
Close to London’s Premier
Entertainment Venues
Plenty of Nearby Parking
Mithras Cider
Chocolate Peanut Tart
Fermented Tomato Panna Cotta
localflavour.ca 35
Authentic Wood-fired
Artisanal Pizzeria
PIZZERIA MADRE
Chef Matt Reijnen and Jessica Washburn
offer an exceptional experience at
Pizzeria Madre, bringing a contemporary
local twist to Italian-inspired cuisine.
The Malagutti fired pizza oven turns out
pizzas with perfect crust and a variety of
authentic, seasonally-inspired dishes.
36
London
Farm-to-Table
Italian Pizzeria
111 Wellington Street
(between Hill & South Streets)
MAP B p16: 9 519-432-4333
OPEN: TUES–SAT 5 pm–10 pm
Closed SUN–MON
pizzeriamadre.wixsite.com/book
Naturally-Leavened Sourdough
Pizza Crust
Rotating Local Craft Beer Selection
16-Seat Seasonal Patio
The Scene
Situated in a 130-year-old building
in London’s recently revitalized
SoHo neighbourhood, this licensed,
contemporary resto is casual yet
sophisticated and nicely appointed
with high ceilings, tile floors, picture
windows, whitewashed walls and a
partially-open kitchen. The custommade
bar and tables are made of
local pine. Service is genuinely warm
and intelligent.
Menu Highlights
Menus are spiked with seasonal
ingredients. The Green Bean Salad
with pancetta, breadcrumbs, Parmigiano, lemon and Caesar dressing is
sensational. Also highly recommended from the Sharing/Small Plates
Menu are Warm Sicilian Olives with rosemary, chile, garlic, citrus and
the Pizzeria Salad with iceberg, greens, pickled red onion, fried polenta
croutons, pecorino and agrodolce dressing. The ever-changing “Pizze”
Menu offers amazing flavour combinations that change with the seasons,
each with a perfect crust made from naturally-leavened sourdough pizza
dough. Carnivores, vegans and vegetarians will find appealing options,
and any pizza can be modified upon request. Recent pizzas have included:
• Marinara with tomato, garlic,
oregano, pepper and olive oil;
• Pepperoni with tomato, fontina,
housemade pepperoni, oregano,
toasted fennel seed and Parmigiano;
• Nightshade with tomato, smoky
eggplant, roasted pepper/Calabrian
chile pesto, Taleggio and Parmigiano;
• Roasted Mushroom with cream,
smoked provolone, maitake & cremini
mushrooms, parsley, chive and walnut.
Don’t forget to leave room for dessert!
Changing selections such as Warm
Chocolate & Salted Caramel Cake or
Patata Pizza
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Chocolate Brûléed & Blistered S’more
show off the kitchen’s diverse strengths.
LONDON
PIZZERIA
Sourdough Garlic Bread
Changing Housemade Desserts
Malagutti Fired Pizza Oven
localflavour.ca 37
A New Taste
in Hyde Park!
TAVERNA 13THIRTYONE
Co-owners Rob D’Amico and Chef Dave Lamers,
of renowned Abruzzi in Downtown London, have
brought this contemporary upscale neighbourhood
tavern to Hyde Park in west-end London. An
internationally-inspired menu offers something for
everyone, perfect for families, a business lunch, or a
great night out with friends.
38
Tostada, albacore tuna crudo,
pickled pearl onions, chilies, sprouts
Co-Owners Rob D’Amico
& Chef David Lamers
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
The Scene
Taverna 13thirtyone is in
a new space designed to
accommodate the vision of
experienced restaurateurs,
creating a relaxed yet
sophisticated culinary
experience. A welcoming
bar has both craft beers and
quality wines on tap, and a
larger selection by the bottle.
High ceilings with exposed
ductwork and large windows
letting in plenty of natural light
enhance the contemporary
feel, while comfortable seating
is arranged for larger groups
and intimate dinners. There is a private room for parties or business
meetings for up to 30 guests. A seasonal patio seats 40.
Menu Highlights
Chef David Lamers and Chef Logan Withers lead the kitchen team,
with a menu that celebrates local and seasonal ingredients inspired by
international flavours. Charcuterie and Cheese Boards and a selection of
small plate options are ideal for a communal dining experiences, or choose
a small plate as a starter or a light bite. You’ll also find fresh oysters,
housemade pastas and an eclectic variety of main dishes, and inspired
housemade desserts.
Shareable suggestions include the Tostada of the Day, perogies,
or dumplings. Try the delicious Great Lakes Fish Tacos, a fresh
interpretation of KFC Chicken Wings, or the perfectly prepared Steak
Tartare. Recommendations for main entrées include:
• Spatchcock Cornish Hen — whole deboned hen, smashed fingerling
potatoes, roasted heirloom carrots, and hen jus;
• French Onion Burger with
caramelized onions, Swiss cheese,
and a potato chive bun;
• Trout Almondine with fingerling
potatoes, green beans, sliced
almonds, and lemon pan jus;
• Striploin Steak — a 9oz California
cut with Shogun maitake
mushrooms, roasted mini carrots,
and red wine jus;
• “Bangers & Mash” Sausage-
Stuffed Pork Loin with brown
House-Cured Breasola
butter mashed, green beans, pea
shoot salad, and red eye gravy.
LONDON
London
Contemporary
International
Farm-to-Table
1331 Hyde Park Road
(S of South Carriage Rd.)
MAP B p16: 10 519-473-1331
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK:
hours change seasonally
LUNCH: $8– $16
DINNER: $15 – $33
taverna1331.ca
Beer & Wine On Tap
Private Room Available
Menus Change Seasonally
Seasonal Patio
Attentive, Knowledgeable Service
Ample Free Parking
Angus Strip Loin
Loco Fields Sunchoke Agnolotti
Heeman’s Strawberry Shortcake
localflavour.ca 39
Classic & Contemporary
Hungarian Cuisine
BUDAPEST RESTAURANT
This London landmark has been operating since 1956, and its
current owners, Eduard Nagy and Anita Tasonyi, are 20-year
veterans of the establishment. Protégés of the legendary restaurateur
Marika Hayek, they continue to delight clients by offering
authentic Hungarian specialties in this classic old-world setting.
40
London
Authentic
Hungarian Dining
348 Dundas Street (at Waterloo)
MAP B p16: 11 519-439-3431
LUNCH: MON–FRI 11am–2pm
DINNER: SUN–THURS 4 pm–9 pm
FRI & SAT 4 pm–10 pm
LUNCH: $12 – $22
DINNER: $20 – $38
budapestrestaurant.net
Owners Anita Tasonyi
and Eduard Nagy
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
The Scene
Budapest Restaurant is a local gem
with a richly Bohemian and Gypsystyle
ambience. The décor is a mix of
traditional designs, embroidery, lace,
layering, fringe, textures, prints and
photographs. Red velvet valances and
curtained tables are complemented
by comfortable armchairs. A charming
canopied seasonal streetside patio
offers a sheltered view of downtown.
Conveniently located in the hotel
district, the restaurant is a short walk
to the Delta Armouries, DoubleTree by
Hilton and RBC Place London.
Menu Highlights
The Old World European
look and feel is matched by a
deliciously authentic menu.
The chef is an innovator, adding
interesting contemporary twists
to the dishes and the plating of
traditional recipes, retaining the
heart and soul of the Hungarian
classics. Confident, expansive
cooking keeps traditional Hungarian flavours front and centre.
The passionate kitchen takes an enticing handful of top quality ingredients
and allows them to shine. This is Marika Hayek’s lasting legacy. Enjoy classic
offerings flavoured prominently by woodsy, smoky Hungarian paprika — dishes
that are precisely prepared and expertly
flavoured. Recommendations include:
• Weiner Schnitzel dipped in egg
batter, coated with breadcrumbs and
delicately golden fried;
• Cabbage Rolls filled with minced pork
& rice, baked in a signature tomato
sauce;
• Chicken Blintz with chopped crispy
chicken schnitzel in a savoury crepe;
• Roasted Duck Leg with braised red
Dining Room
Manager Julia
cabbage and dumplings;
• Slow Cooked Roast Lamb Shoulder
with light mustard and cream sauce.
LONDON
Banquet Room Available
Seasonal Patio
Take-away & Catering Available
Chicken Schnitzel on a Kaiser
Golden Fried Weiner Schnitzel
Bohemian Decor & Gypsy Ambiance
localflavour.ca 41
Escape the Ordinary
STAY
Nestled between the entertainment
and business districts in Downtown
London, Hotel Metro offers a boutique
hotel experience. An architectural
blend of modern and historic design
complements this private 20-room
hotel that delivers a personal service
during your stay.
RELAX
Hotel Metro’s rooms are designed to
enhance your visit. Awaiting you are
luxurious AVEDA bath amenities, flat
screen TVs, Keurig coffee makers,
soothing soaker tubs, exposed brick
walls in our signature lofts and fine
dining delivered to your door —
ensuring an exceptional and unique
experience.
ENJOY
Many of London’s finest entertainment
attractions are within steps of Hotel
Metro’s doors: Budweiser Gardens, the
historic Covent Garden Market, the
Grand Theatre and many of London’s
best restaurants and bars — including
famed Richmond Row — are within
walking distance. Located within Hotel
Metro, Gnosh Dining + Cocktails offers
an eclectic seasonal menu. Feel like
staying in? Gnosh offers its menu
in-room for your convenience.
London’s Premier Boutique Hotel
There is no limit to what we can arrange.
Please contact us to customize your stay.
We are available 24/7 to answer your questions.
T: 519.518.9000 or 1.866.626.3876
E: info@mhotels.ca W: hotelmetro.ca
32 Covent Market Lane, Downtown London
London
Traditional Italian
& Mediterranean
117 King Street (at Talbot)
MAP B p16: 12 519-434-2272
HOURS: MON–SAT 11:30 am–close
Closed Sundays & Holidays
LUNCH: $9–$24
DINNER: $10–$39
lacasaristorante.com
Steps to Budweiser Gardens
Across from Covent Garden Market
Perfect for Groups, Birthdays,
Rehearsal Lunches & Dinners,
Small Weddings, Receptions
and Private Dining
Outstanding Scotch Selection
Fresh Daily Food Specials
Gracious Relaxed Dining
Salmone Della Casa
Marinated Pan-Fried Calamari
44 localflavour.ca
Come Home to
La Casa — Since 1994
LA CASA RISTORANTE
A Downtown London landmark for fine dining for 25 years, it
continues to offer a quintessential
experience for casual but refined
dining. Consistency and familiarity are
the hallmarks of the La Casa culinary
experience. Count on fresh, local
ingredients and a warm, neighbourly
ambience with intimate dining rooms
accented by a crackling wood-burning
fireplace and a well-stocked bar.
The Scene
In the middle of King Street’s restaurant
row, across the street from the Covent
Garden Market and kitty corner to
Budweiser Gardens stands La Casa, with a stylish black brick façade.
One enters the dining room through a short hallway, as one might enter a
gracious home. Intimately candle-lit by night, large windows provide lots
of natural light by day.
Menu Highlights
La Casa encapsulates its Italian roots by offering traditional home-style
fare such as risotto, ravioli, lasagna, gnocchi Bolognese and angel
hair pasta. The menus emphasize the classics of the Italian culinary
canon and the authenticity that comes from family recipes handed down
Traditional Desserts
LONDON
Beef Tenderloin
through the generations. The pastas are
all made in-house and the kitchen does
its own smoking, baking and desserts.
The sourdough starter is over 20 years
old now! Recommendations include:
• Rack of Lamb — herb-crusted Ontario
lamb, roasted red potatoes, vegetable
ratatouille and a shiraz-lamb sauce;
• Seafood Risotto — lobster, seared
scallops, shrimp, diced pancetta,
mascarpone cheese & fresh pea shoots;
• Beef Tenderloin — 8-ounce hand-cut
fillet, with asparagus tips, garlic
mashed potatoes, roasted portobello
mushroom and a beef jus demi-glace.
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
An Experience
to Savour
Chef Scott Wesseling
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
BLACK
TRUMPET
For over 18 years Black Trumpet
has been a culinary destination in
the heart of Downtown London’s
Richmond Row. The warmth and
charm extends from the architecture
to the impeccable world-inspired
cuisine, wine list and the polished
attentive service.
The Scene
Black Trumpet has a stunning and lush ambience, with eight unique richly
detailed and flexible dining areas for entertaining an intimate group or
hosting a sit-down reception. In the warm weather months, the beautifully
appointed and private gardens create a peaceful setting and prestigious
spot for alfresco dining and cocktails. This secluded haven is a hidden
jewel, one of the city’s best-kept secrets.
Menu Highlights
Chef Scott Wesseling and Sous Chef Oliver Thomas have a contemporary
take on updated comfort foods, plant-based options and traditional
recipes, and support and seek out local providers. The menu offers
something to appeal to everyone’s tastes or dietary needs. A new Vegan
Menu offers delicious options, such as the BT Buddha Bowl, Avocado
Tempura with chili lime aioli, or Cabbage Rolls.
At lunch, treat yourself to Cornish Hen, Ontario Lamb, or one of the
many offerings from The Big Green Egg,
such as Pork Belly Burnt End Bao Buns,
Brisket, or Lamb Shank Shawarma.
Dinner recommendations include:
• Berbere Spiced Tuna, olive and citrus
Israeli cous cous, kelp salad and
wasabi crèma;
• Maple Lacquered Duck Confit with
warm bacon potato salad and grainy
mustard sauce;
• Roasted Squash Risotto with leeks,
Fish Tacos
chevre, roasted pumpkin seeds, fried
sage, and pumpkin oil.
LONDON
London
Contemporary
World Cuisine
523 Richmond Street (S of Kent)
MAP B p16: 13 519-850-1500
HOURS: MON–SAT 11:30 am–close
Closed Sundays & Holidays
LUNCH: $11–$21
DINNER: $11–$36
blacktrumpet.ca
World Cuisine Inspired by Local
and Seasonal Ingredients
In the Heart of Richmond Row,
Just North of The Grand Theatre
Perfect for Groups, Birthdays,
Rehearsal Lunches & Dinners,
Small Weddings, Receptions
and Private Dining
Multi-Media Capabilities
Exotic Courtyard Patio
Peaceful Garden Courtyard
Bacon-wrapped Chorizo
Private Dining Rooms Available
localflavour.ca 45
London
Farm-to-Table
Social Enterprise
1. 255 Horton Street (Goodwill Centre)
MAP B p16: 14 519-645-0900
HOURS: MON–FRI 7:30 am–4:30 pm
SAT & SUN 9 am–3 pm
2. 201 King Street (Innovation Works)
MAP B p16: 15 519-675-1733
HOURS: MON–FRI 8 am–4 pm
saturday & sunday closed
Breakfast: $5 – $8
Lunch: $4.75 – $10
edgarandjoes.ca
Fresh and Local Ingredients
Catering Available
Free Parking at Horton St.
Available for Private Functions
Fresh Baked Goods
Innovative Lunch Combinations
Community Gathering Spaces
46 localflavour.ca
A Café with a Purpose
EDGAR + JOE’S CAFÉ
Edgar and Joe’s, at two locations, is a gathering space and food
operation with a social purpose. Each café makes fresh and local
food available, affordable and approachable with healthy choices.
The Scene
A stylish and minimalist 70-seat
café located in the Goodwill Centre
opened in 2013. Rave reviews led
to the opening of another location
within the Innovation Works
London building on King Street.
Both cafés serve a diverse clientele
from all over the city.
Menu Highlights
Nutritious baked goods with high
quality ingredients are freshly baked
throughout the day. Sandwiches are definitely the stars of the show, from the
classic BLT to innovative combinations inspired by global cuisines. Delicious
soups, salads and a daily chalkboard special are on offer. The Classic
Breakfast Special is a hearty standout. Other recommendations include:
• Eggs Benny with two soft poached eggs on a warm buttermilk biscuit,
topped with house peameal and the café’s signature hollandaise, served
with home fries;
• California Veggie Sandwich with grilled zucchini, avocado, cucumber,
tomato, mixed greens, sprouts and beet hummus on fresh ciabatta;
• Edgar Burger with house-ground AAA Angus chuck, charbroiled and
topped with Asiago cheese, sautéed mushrooms, double- smoked bacon
and shallots, on a toasted ciabatta with lettuce, tomato and house mayo.
Catering & Events
Edgar and Joe’s Café caters onsite events in its facilities, offsite corporate
breakfasts and luncheons, casual gatherings, and more formal cocktail
receptions. Planned menus suit a
variety of events, or a custom chefdesigned
menu to fit your specific
vision can be created.
The Goodwill Centre offers
adapt able and flexible event space
for groups of up to 250 guests. The
Town Hall for up to 70 showcases
a gorgeous third floor city view.
The Community Hall is ideal for
weddings, anniversaries, and larger
corporate events and functions.
goodwillindustries.ca/events
LONDON
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Unique Views
& Fabulous Food
KATANA KAFÉ & GRILL
Come for the planes. Fall in love with the food. Located within the
Diamond Flight Centre, the Katana patio runs beside the London
International Airport tarmac. This is the ONLY place to eat fabulous
food and drink lovely libations while watching 90,000 pounds of
aluminum, steel and
titanium come and go.
The Scene
The decor, recently
refreshed and upgraded,
is sleek with a
contemporary vibe and
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
London International
Airport Plane Spotting
aeronautical theme. Bright
and airy, the tarmac-side
patio and large windows
allow for viewing flights.
There is not a bad seat in the house! Reservations are recommended.
Menu Highlights
Katana Kafé offers a modern take on the bistro theme, with something for
everyone. Chef Chris Morrisson collaborates with a stellar culinary team
working in view behind a glass partition. Enjoy a seasonal menu with
lunches offering delicious sandwich and soup options and heartier fare.
Dinner menus range from pizzas and burgers to perfectly grilled steaks
and decadent seafood. Housemade breads, preserves, and desserts are
the pride of the kitchen, made with details that lift a good experience into a
great experience. Suggestions include:
• Three Cheese Tortellini with Atlantic
Salmon — from the Lunch Menu,
sundried tomato pesto cream, fresh
herbs, Parmesan, olive oil, white wine
and spinach with a darne of grilled
salmon;
• Niagara Ice wine and Local Apple
Salad — a Dinner appetizer of roasted
and candied granny smith apples
with a gastrique of Niagara ice wine,
first press virgin olive oil, cambazolla
cheese, sourdough croutons and
grilled mother of thyme;
Chef Jaime Pena & Executive
Chef Chris Morrisson
• AAA Rib Eye Steak (10 or 14oz) with
foie gras truffle butter and bordelaise.
LONDON
London
Modern Bistro
2530 Blair Blvd. (off Crumlin Road)
in the Diamond Flight Centre
MAP B p16: 16 519-455-9005
HOURS: MON & TUES 11 am–3 pm
WED–FRI 11 am–9 pm
SAT 9 am–3 pm
5 pm–9 pm
SUN 9 am–3 pm
5 pm–8 pm
Hours subject to change
LUNCH: $8–$23
DINNER: $9–$40
katanakafe.com
Weekend Breakfasts
Overlooks London International
Airport Runway
Plenty of Free Parking
1 Block North of the Airport,
off Crumlin Side Road
Charcuterie D’Maison
Crispy Braised Belly of Wild Boar
Turmeric-Crusted-Atlantic Salmon
localflavour.ca 47
London
Casual Italian/
Mediterranean &
Traditional Pub
153-155 Albert Street (W of Richmond)
MAP B p16: 17 519-642-2300
HOURS: MON–THURS 11:30am–2pm
4:30 pm–10 pm
FRIDAY 11:30 am–11 pm
SATURDAY 11 am–11 pm
SUNDAY 4 pm–10 pm
RUNT CLUB HOURS:
MON–THURS 11:30 am–1 am
FRIDAY 11:30 am–2 am
SATURDAY 11 am–2 am
SUNDAY 6 pm–1 am
Summer Hours: 11:30 am–1 am
LUNCH: $8 – $12
DINNER: $18 – $24
fellinikoolini.com
runtclub.ca
Build Your Own Thin Crust Pizza
or Pasta Creation
Children’s Menu
A Passion for Pasta
Panko-Crusted Croquetas
Gourmet Pizzas
48 localflavour.ca
Flavours of Italy &
The Mediterranean
FELLINI KOOLINI’S
& THE RUNT CLUB
Sit back and enjoy classic
Italian and Mediterranean
comfort food and great
wine. You’ll find 30
different wines available
by the glass — London’s
largest selection. The
menu’s inspiring sharing
plates enhance the dining
experience and homelike
vibe. With its sibling pub
The Runt Club next door,
Fellini Koolini’s has made
Albert Street a festive destination for over a quarter of a century.
The Scene
Comfortable banquettes and casually elegant tables over two floors make
Fellini Koolini’s perfect for a fun group or intimate meal. The terrace offers
an inviting spot for al fresco dining. The Runt Club is a popular watering
hole, with a larger well-shaded patio and a traditional pub atmosphere.
Menu Highlights
Sharing plates can bring out the most in your dining experience, so explore
the extensive selection of Tapas and Pintxos (bite-size small plates) that are
perfect for passing around the table. Other affordable Mediterranean-inspired
menu favourites include an endless selection of made-to-order pastas
and gourmet thin crust pizzas (or become the Pizza Architect and choose
your favourite ingredients). The menu also offers daily fresh fish, steamed
mussels, calamari, steak, poultry, pork and veal. There are plenty of choices
for vegetarians and gluten-free
options. The Runt Club offers
the full Fellini Koolini’s menu.
Fellini’s outstanding wine
program, available by the
bottle or glass, creates inspiring
wine flight options, perfect
for exploring and sampling
new wines or enjoying your
favourite vintages.
LONDON
Wine Flights — 30 Wines
Available by the Glass
Extensive Tapas Menu
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
A London Institution
JOE KOOL’S
Sports Bar. Family Restaurant. Party Central. This is truly a place for
everyone, of any age. Restaurateur Mike Smith launched Joe Kool’s
over a third of a century
ago, and it’s been a fun
and popular Richmond
Row landmark ever since.
The Scene
The eccentric surroundings
provide a never-ending
supply of eye-catching
kitsch and memorabilia,
from Elvis in his coffin to the
1000+ beer can collection.
Kool’s is also a sports lover’s paradise, evidenced in umpteen big screens
and TVs covering all of the angles and all of the games. If you want to
watch it, they can probably get it! A seasonal rooftop patio has capacity
The Kitchen Sink Pizza
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
for 130 people. Large
groups can also arrange
for semi-private rooms: the
ever-popular “Back Room”
with mezzanine, and “The
Penthouse” in the basement.
Menu Highlights
There are 25 draft beers on
tap, but Joe Kool’s is also
about the food. While there is something for everyone, Kool’s is known for
its Local Lake Perch fillets, pan-fried and served with lemon caper mayo,
and ever-popular Jose Nachos, the Kitchen Sink Pizza, Deluxe Hot Dogs
and Burgers and Chicken Wings. Also recommended are the Thai Lettuce
Jose Nachos
Wraps — marinated chicken,
julienned vegetables, peanuts
and cilantro — or the panseared
chicken and pork Pot
Stickers, served with toasted
sesame and sweet soya
dipping sauce. Joe Kool’s
also offers a convenient takeout
and delivery service.
LONDON
London
Casual Bar & Grill
595 Richmond Street (at Central)
MAP B p16: 18 519-663-5665
HOURS: MON & TUES 11:30 am–1 am
WED–SAT 11:30 am–2 am
SUNDAY 12 noon–1 am
LUNCH: $9 – $16
DINNER: $11 – $23
joekoolsrestaurant.ca
Bar & Grill by day, House Party by
Night
Semi-Private Rooms Available
Entire Menu Available for
Take-Out and Delivery
Vegetarian & Gluten-free Options
Kid’s Menu
London’s Nightly House Party
Large & Popular Rooftop Patio
Deluxe Burgers & Hot Dogs Menu
localflavour.ca 49
London
Italian-inspired
Casual Dining
6675 Burtwistle Lane
(off Colonel Talbot Road near 401)
MAP B p16: 19 519-652-7659
HOURS: MON–TUES 11 am–10 pm
WED–SAT 11 am–11 pm
SUNDAY 5 pm–10 pm
pastosgrill.com
TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence
All Desserts Made In-House
Interesting & Affordable Wine List
Extensive Gluten-Friendly Options
Take-Out & Catering Available
Chic Bistro Character
Well-Stocked Comfortable Bar
A Taste of Italy Awaits!
50 localflavour.ca
Italian Seduction,
Bite By Bite
PASTO’S GRILL
Inspired by travel and a passion for the traditions of Italian culture,
Pasto’s Grill follows the Italian principle of proper execution of
simple recipes featuring the freshest seasonal ingredients available.
The Scene
Pasto’s Grill is a chic bistro in a casually
elegant environment. The dining room
is built in a half-circle, decorated in
warm and calming shades, with white
linen tables surrounded by wine racks
and period posters. Service is friendly
and professional.
Menu Highlights
The kitchen is literally the hub of the
restau rant. All meals are prepared
from scratch by the dedicated culinary
brigade. Traditional recipes are the
heart of both the lunch and dinner
menus, with occasional nods to global
and modern sensitivities. For example,
all pasta dishes can be prepared with gluten-free noodles. Menu items are
all made to order.
The antipasti menu offers plenty of choice, including Antipasto Platters
for two or more, with Chef’s selection of cured meats and local cheeses
with roasted peppers, olives and garlic crostini, or the Marco Polo, with
wonton shrimp, calamari fritti, grilled shrimp and crab-filled mushrooms.
Hand-made, thin crust pizzas include classics such as the San Michelle, with
pesto, garlic, sliced tomatoes, grilled chicken, spinach, goat cheese and
mozzarella. Other recommendations include:
• Veal Romano — tender
provimi veal scallopini
with wild mushrooms
in a cognacpeppercorn
sauce;
• Grilled Vegetable
Napoleon — stacked
vegetables, portobello
mushroom & melted
provolone served with
orzo-farro pilaf.
LONDON
Siblings, Manager Natalie Zima
and Chef Peter Johnson
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Lovingly Crafted
with Skill & Heart
some fresh bread and baked
goods, including sensational
desserts, or a gourmet grab-n-go
soup and sandwich.
The Scene
Conveniently located in a spacious
building on Oxford Street, the
wonderful scents of the bakery
and a relaxing atmosphere offer
a peaceful refuge. Light pours in
oversized "port hole" windows, with
a brick and bookcase wall treatment
creating a comfy vibe. Relax on
leather couches and chairs or sit
at stylish tables on contemporary
wood and steel bistro chairs.
Artisanal Baking at Its Best
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
LA NOISETTE
BAKERY & DELI
Like the small but delicious hazelnut
from which it takes its name, La
Noisette is a bakery café that surpasses
expectations. Owned and operated
by the young but seasoned team of
Tabitha Bartlett and Dave Coulter, this
is a perfect spot for a coffee and a tasty
bite — or a hearty meal. Take home
Owners Tabitha Bartlett (Baking
Specialist) and Dave Coulter
(Cook & Savoury Expert)
Menu Highlights
Tabitha’s passion for baking become
obvious with a glance at the
beautifully crafted loaves of breads
and bagels, and exquisite array of
cookies, muffins, cupcakes, pies,
squares and tarts. Dave takes
the same artisanal approach to his
soups, sandwiches, quiches and
other entrées. As with the baked
goods, everything is inspired by
home cooking and made from
scratch with local ingredients, real
butter, and a commitment to quality
in every bite.
LONDON
London
Artisanal Bakery &
Neighbourhood Café
900 Oxford Street East (at Gammage)
MAP B p16: 20 519-601-1651
HOURS: TUES 10 am–6 pm
WED–FRI 8 am–6 pm
SAT 8 am–4 pm
closed sunday & monday
lanoisettebakery.com
A Variety of Breads, Muffins,
Cookies, Pies, Squares etc.,
Baked Fresh Daily
Real Ingredients with Everything
Made from Scratch by Hand
Homemade Soups & Sandwiches
Outstanding Coffee & Grab-n-Go
Snacks & Meals
Comfortable Lounge Area
Custom Orders & Catering
Comfortable Seating
Handmade New York Style Bagels
Freshly Baked Goodies!
localflavour.ca 51
London
European Cuisine
& English Beer Pub
122 Carling Street (at Talbot)
MAP B p16: 21 519-679-9940
MARIENBAD HOURS:
MON–THURS 11:30 am–10 pm
FRI & SAT 11:30 am–10:30 pm
SUNDAY 4:30 pm–9 pm
marienbad.ca
Private Rooms Available
Fine Banquet Facilities
Murder Mystery Dinners
CHAUCER’S HOURS:
MON 11:30 am–10:30 pm
TUES & WED 11:30 am–11 pm
THURS 11:30 am–11:30 pm
FRI 11:30 am–1 am
SAT 4:30 pm–1 am
closed sunday
Large Craft & Import Beer Selection
Single Malt Specialists
Live Folk Music
Traditional Fare
Elegant Private Rooms
Heritage Building, c. 1854
52 localflavour.ca
A Taste of Europe
MARIENBAD &
CHAUCER’S PUB
Located in one of London’s oldest heritage buildings, Marienbad
Restaurant has brought a sophisticated European flair to the city
since 1974. This is fine dining, in
a casual atmosphere. Next door,
Chaucer’s Pub features one of
London’s strongest craft beer and
import selections. In season, the
sidewalk patio is a popular spot for
dining or a cold beverage.
The Scene
Recently renovated, Marienbad Restaurant
still exudes Old World style and elegance.
A number of finely furnished private rooms
make this is a popular spot for parties,
banquets and corporate gatherings.
Chaucer’s Pub provides a more casual atmosphere. While Marienbad takes
its cues from eastern and central Europe, Chaucer’s features true Olde
English style. Comfortable and cozy, it’s a throwback to a different era, with a
large bar, beautiful woodwork and a stone fireplace.
Menu Highlights
Casual fine dining features traditional favourites from eastern and central
Europe, and newly introduced vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free dishes.
Expect gourmet Schnitzels, Goulash, Chicken Paprikash, Steak Tartare,
Rouladen, Prime Rib, Seafood, Pastas and Salads. Suggestions include
the savoury Hungarian Goulash, served with Bohemian dumplings, and
the crispy Jäger Schnitzel, a pan-fried natural schnitzel, topped with wild
mushroom sauce. Popular Murder Mystery Dinners offer an interactive —
and tasty! — dining experience.
Chaucer’s has 14 beers on
tap and stocks approximately
85 different brews from
six continents, rotating in
selections seasonally, with
heartier ales for winter and
clean crisp lagers for warmer
months. Chaucer’s also has a
fine selection of single malt
scotches on offer.
LONDON
European-Style
Sidewalk Patio
Chaucer’s Pub
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Authentic
Ethiopian Cuisine
TG’S ADDIS ABABA
RESTAURANT
For more than a decade, T.G.’s
Addis Ababa Restaurant has offered
an enjoyable tour de force from
the Ethiopian culinary repertoire by
Chef/restaurateur T.G. Haile.
The Scene
The modest restaurant is tucked away
slightly off the beaten track in an
unassuming brick building on Dundas
Street. The decor reflects the ancient
Ethiopian culture, which makes an exotic
yet comfortable, homey atmosphere.
Menu Highlights
Dining at T.G.’S Addis Ababa Restaurant
is characterized by the ritual of breaking
injera (traditional yeast-risen flatbread,
spongy in texture, crêpe-like in appearance, with sourdough tanginess)
and sharing food from a communal platter, strengthening bonds of loyalty
and friendship.
Truly authentic Ethiopian cuisine features a harmonious blend of flavours.
T.G.’s signature dishes comprise
variations of sweet, bitter, sour, salty,
hot and fragrant, including a large
variety of vegetarian and vegan
dishes. Meat dishes fall mostly into
two distinct categories: red stews
(wat), which include berbere, and
green stews (alicha wat), which do
not. Ethiopian cuisine does not include
pork. Other recommendations include:
• Dulet Kitfo — minced lean beef,
cooked with butter, onion, jalapeno
pepper, and a special addis spice;
• Defen Misr — green lentils cooked
with traditional seasoning, onion
and curry.
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
T.G. Haile
LONDON
London
Family Friendly
African Dining
465 Dundas Street (at Maitland)
MAP B p16: 22 519-433-4222
HOURS: TUES–SUN 11 am–10 pm
by reservation
closed mondays
MENU: $12 – $17
tgsaddisababarestaurant.ca
Platters for Sharing for 2 or 4
or Individual Plates
Traditional Cuisine & Spices
Plant-based Menus Available
Ethiopian Coffee Ceremonies
African Wines & Local Craft Beers
Take-Out & Catering Available
TG’s
ADDIS ABABA
Restaurant
An Injera Platter Combination
Communal & Family-style Serving
Classic Ethiopian Dishes
localflavour.ca 53
London
Coffee Bar & Café
825 Southdale Road West
(at Tillmann Road)
MAP B p16: 23 519-652-1607
HOURS: MON–SUN 8 am–9 pm
may change seasonally
MENU: $4– $15
creambeanerycafe.com
Homemade Gelato
Dietary Sensitivities Accommodated
Light Meals & Fresh Baking
Over 120 Flavour Syrups
Catering Available
Ample Free Parking
Homemade Gelato Year Round
Over 120 Flavour Syrups
Housemade Jams, Jellies, Spreads
54 localflavour.ca
More than Just
a Coffee Shop!
CREAM BEANERY
CAFE
Owners Kim and Victor
Nunez offer great coffee and
delicious gelato, as well as
light meals, fresh baking and
homemade specials, in a
welcoming, comfortable and
cozy space.
The Scene
The warm ambience is enhanced
by upholstered booths and a
central communal table, ideal for
meeting with friends and family.
A seasonal patio and comfortable
chairs make this a place to sit and
Fresh Pour Over Coffee
let worries slip away. Colourful
menu boards outline most of the menu, while friendly servers are pleased
to tell you about daily specials. They’re serving all-day breakfast, lunch and
supper seven days a week. A Pour-Over Coffee Bar features the smallbatch
roaster O-Joe’s ethically-sourced, organic coffee and tea. There is a
small outdoor courtyard in season.
Menu Highlights
The charming, home-style menu features breakfast sandwiches on a bagel
or English muffin, homemade soups and delicious from-scratch baking.
Dietary concerns? The menu offers keto, gluten-free, vegan/vegetarian
and dairy-free options. The cafe
also specializes in homemade
gelato, with flavours ranging
from the classics like Vanilla and
Pistachio to the adventurous, like
the Skor Bar Cheesecake! Truly,
there’s a gelato to suit every taste,
with 24 seasonally alternating
flavours. Take away containers of
gelato in ½ litre and 1-litre sizes
are available for purchase. Or try
a Gelato Panini — your favourite
gelato flavour sealed inside a fresh
brioche bun. Delicious!
LONDON
The Nunez Family
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Specialty Shops & Services
LOCAL
flavour
55
Taste The Difference
Real Quality Makes!
THE PRISTINE OLIVE
TASTING BAR
In 2012 Jamie Griffiths and his wife Clara
(with son Reid, and daughter Ally) introduced
The Pristine Olive to the Forest City, and
for the past seven years fresh extra virgin
olive oil has been the essence of their family
business and the cornerstone of success.
After five years in their original location, they
moved to their new, “forever” location on
Adelaide Street North.
56
Bright and Spacious New Store!
The Pristine Olive’s top priorities today remain the same as the
day they swung open the doors; to bring Londoners the freshest and highest
quality extra virgin olive oils and balsamic
vinegars available, and to educate consumers
on what makes the difference when it comes to
true taste and health benefits.
Why Does “Fresh” Matter?
The health benefits of an extra virgin olive oil
are unmatched, with research revealing more
benefits almost daily. However, not all olive
oils are created equal. “Think of your olive
oil as a freshly squeezed fruit juice,” explains
Jamie. “A fresh juice contains the most flavour,
nutrients and health benefits. And just as you
wouldn’t want your freshly squeezed orange
juice sitting around for years, an old, poorly
made, improperly stored or fraudulent olive oil
yields fewer, if any, health benefits and has undesirable flavour.”
The Pristine Olive’s standards for extra virgin olive oil were developed
to define and distinguish the freshest, highest quality olive oils in the
world. “The Pristine Olive is the only place in London to offer these high
standards,” says Jamie, “The ultimate in flavour, authenticity, tree-tobottle
transparency and third-party sensory and chemistry lab testing.”
This focus on freshness is guaranteed through the rotation of all their olive
oil with every harvest. For half the year, The Pristine Olive only carries oils
produced in the Northern Hemisphere, and the other half of the year, only
oils produced from the Southern Hemisphere. “We never have oils available
past the 12-month mark following their harvest date,” says Jamie.
Over 60 All-Natural Olive Oils
& Balsamic Vinegars
With a minimum of 12 single cultivar extra virgin oils — all available to try
before you buy — there is a myriad of choices to ignite your taste buds. And
the value placed on purity certainly doesn’t end with olive oil. As one of the
few companies in the world to offer a truly colour-free product, all of the
aged dark balsamic vinegars
available at The Pristine Olive
are caramel-colour free, with no
added thickeners or sweeteners.
The store also carries
many complementary items:
cookbooks, natural olive oil soap,
pasta, tapenades, sea salts, and
spreads. Watch the website,
Facebook and Instagram pages for exciting updates in 2020, as there are
many new ideas and projects on the go. #wherefreshmatters
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
LONDON
London
Olive Oil & Balsamic
Vinegar Tasting Bar
884 Adelaide St. North (at Grosvenor)
MAP B p16: 24 519-433-4444
HOURS: MON–FRI 10 am–5:30 pm
SAT 10 am–5 pm
closed sunday
Extra virgin olive oils and balsamic
vinegars: $13.95–$34.95
Gourmet oils: $11.95–$97.95
thepristineolive.ca
Fused (Agrumato) & Infused Olive Oils
Traditional-style Balsamic Vinegar
Condimento
Natural-Flavoured, Whole Fruit, and
Whole Ingredient White and Dark
Balsamic Vinegars
After Hours, Private Tastings Available
Ample Free Parking
Over 60 Oil and Vinegar Flavours
Sample Pack Options
Convenient New Location!
localflavour.ca 57
The Deliciously Healthy
Veg-Friendly Bakery
THE BOOMBOX BAKESHOP
Taking the cupcake and its kin to the next level, The Boombox
Bakeshop is one of the gems of London’s Old East Village.
Plant-based creativity is expressed in every corner and in
every deliciously decadent bite.
58
London
Veg-Friendly
Bakery & Cafe
520 Adelaide St. North (at Princess)
MAP B p16: 25 519-488-0384
HOURS: TUES–FR 9:30 am–5:30 pm
SAT 10 am–4 pm
closed sunday & monday
theboomboxbakeshop.com
The Scene
The charming shop features a comfy seating area to enjoy a treat and a cup
of excellent coffee. Unique music-themed decor extends to a record “swap
Locally Roasted
Coffee
combined her love of baking and music in
the shop. “Whether this means supporting
local bands or sourcing our fresh
organic produce from local farmers and
distributors. Even our coffee is roasted
locally and specially blended for the shop.
and drop” for fellow music enthusiasts.
An enticing array of the day’s baking is
displayed for take-away orders, in cutely
designed “boombox” boxes.
Highlights
The veg-friendly bakery and cafe
specializes in vegan goods and
gluten-free vegan goods, ranging
from signature cupcakes to popovers,
cookies, cakes, mini pies and other
delightful seasonal surprises. “We are
also all about supporting local,” notes
Owner Alexandra Connon, who has
Vegan & Gluten-Free Vegan
cupcakes, cookies and treats
Fresh baking every day, with
seasonal surprises every week
Eat-in or Take-Away
Special Orders Available
Owner Alexandra Connon
Order Your Special
Occasion Cakes
and Cupcakes
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
This is a small batch bakery
where every thing is baked
daily. Not all flavours on
the extensive online menu
are available every day, but
can be ordered. Similarly
by order, amazing Special
Occasion Cakes & Cupcakes
— “classical” or “funky” — are
available.
LONDON
New Creations Every Week
Walk-ins Welcome!
localflavour.ca 59
Pasta and Beyond!
MARSHALL’S PASTA
This family-owned restaurant, retail store, and catering
business serves homemade Italian food — and more —
throughout London and the surrounding area. A variety
of fresh pastas and sauces are only the beginning of a
menu that offers something for everyone, whether that
is a family of four, a sports team, or even larger groups.
60
London
Italian Take-Away
& Catering
580 Adelaide St. North (at Central)
MAP B p16: 26 519-672-7827
HOURS: MON–FR 9:30 am–7 pm
SAT 9:30 am–5 pm
SUN 11 am–5 pm
marshallspastacatering.ca
The Scene
Blake and Jodie Marshall and their four daughters take hands-on roles
with Marshall’s Pasta. After injuries forced Blake’s retirement from pro
football in 1993, the Marshalls
studied “the business of pasta”
to parlay their love of Italian
food and cooking into new
careers. Letting Londoners
know “You don’t have to travel
to Italy to get fresh pasta,”
Marshall’s quickly found
appreciative customers, and
thrived. The business settled
into its current location in
2008, when Blake and Jodie
Family Owned and Operated
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
purchased Lusitana Martins
Bakery, purveyors of the crusty
Portugeuse buns that pair
beautifully with Marshall’s menu. Walk-ins are welcome for a quick bite or
for select take-away meals for family dinner. Catering for sports teams,
weddings, and fundraisers are by reservation.
Menu Highlights
Marshall’s takes pride in making the best fresh pasta and homemade sauces
and meatballs, but the catering menu also boasts beef tenderloin, baked
chicken dinner, and lobster tail dinner. Prepared trays of fresh salads,
sandwiches and pastas such as gnocchi, tortellini, ravioli, and lasagna
(meat, roasted vegetable or seafood) are also available. In-store diners can
sit down and enjoy a famous Marshall Sandwich (Italian meats, cheese, red
pepper spread, olive oil and spices), a meatball sub or fresh spaghetti.
Feed your team something
healthy on the road! Marshall’s
is the leading caterer of sports
teams in the city, and delivers
right to your hotel or bus.
Blake’s BBQ can also bring a
smorgasbord of smoked and
grilled options — for meat lovers
and vegetarians — to your
location. Savour Marshall’s fresh,
The Marshall Family
homemade Italian food at your
next fundraising event, business
function, or family celebration.
LONDON
Fresh Pastas and Sauces
Eat-in or Take-Away
Extensive Catering Menu
School Lunch Fundraisers
Sports Team Catering Specialists
Blake’s BBQ Mobile Catering
Meat, Vegetable or Seafood Lasagna
A Variety of Fresh Salads
Tortellini, Ravioli, Gnocchi & More
localflavour.ca 61
London
Custom Bakery
1305 Riverbend Road, Suite 110
(at Oxford Street West)
MAP B p16: 27 519-433-CAKE
(2253)
HOURS: MON–FRI 11 am–7 pm
SAT 10 am–5 pm
SUN 11 am–4 pm
heycupcake.ca
New Solar-Powered Location
Walk-In Orders Available
Plenty of Free Parking
Custom Orders for Unique
Cupcakes, Cakes & Cookies
Expanded Breakfast Options
Vegan, Gluten-free & Keto Options
Delivery Service Available
Custom Cake & Matching Cupcake
Unique Cookies
The ORIGINAL London Cakery
62 localflavour.ca
Delicious Bites
of Creativity
HEY, CUPCAKE!
Each cookie, cupcake and custom cake is an original work of art
at Hey, Cupcake! The family-run bakery, owned by Krista and
Heath Trollope, caters to clientele
who have a whimsical and clever
sense of taste and style, and an
appreciation of quality. Using only
the freshest and finest ingredients,
every order is baked from scratch ...
and created with a whole lotta lovin’.
Ask about their ongoing campaign
“Random Acts of Sweetness!”
The Scene
This small boutique bakery creates
custom orders but also serves walk-in
customers. Always environmentallyconscious,
Hey, Cupcake! has never used
plastic packaging and recently moved into a solar-powered facility. Other
exciting changes include an expanded breakfast menu, including scones
and squares. There are also more vegan, gluten-free and keto options.
Menu Highlights
Scan the large variety of enticing selections from the revolving Daily
Menu of freshly baked cookies and cupcakes, such as the Black & White
— chocolate fudge cupcake topped with Madagascar vanilla buttercream
— or the Raspberry Ripple — vanilla cupcake with a raspberry ribbon
throughout topped with raspberry buttercream. Special Flavours, such as
Chunky Monkey — banana and chocolate chunk cupcake topped with milk
chocolate buttercream and candied banana chips — or Custom Cupcakes
are available with 48 hours notice.
Cakes are custom made to suit
your occasion — think birthdays,
anniversaries, seasonal or theme
parties. If you can imagine it, they can
create it! Cakes can be made to serve
any size of gathering. A minimum two
weeks notice is required for any custom
cake order, and two months for wedding
orders. Book your free consultation by
phone or online today!
LONDON
Krista Trollope
Walk-In Orders Available
Custom Cakes,
Cupcakes & Cookies
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
London’s Destination
For Food Lovers
London
Kitchen Shop
115 King Street (at Talbot)
MAP B p16: 28 519-645-1335
HOURS: MON–FRI 9:30 am–6 pm
SAT 8 am–6 pm
jillstable.ca
Superior Kitchenware
Unique Specialty Foods
Outstanding Selection of Oils &
Vinegars
Gift Wrapping Available
Cooking Classes for All Levels
Proprietor Jill Wilcox
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
JILL’S TABLE
For over 20 years this has been
London’s destination for food
lovers. Owner Jill Wilcox and
her friendly team at Jill’s Table
continue to offer excellent product
knowledge and superior customer
service to make shopping an
exciting experience.
A Feast of Kitchen
Essentials
You’ll find a wide array of unique
specialty foods, including one of
the city’s best selections of oils and
vinegars; superior kitchenware, including All-Clad, Wusthof, Staub and
Emile Henry; as well as many Canadian made items, including The Garlic
Box products, and Kozlik’s mustards.
Looking for a fun activity to do with friends and family? Enjoy a
unique evening out at a Jill’s Table Cooking Class taught by some of
Southwestern Ontario’s best chefs. Or on the weekend, let your senses get
the better of you with Sample Saturdays, when great new food products
and recipes are yours to try. Plus, check out the cookbooks by the Jill’s
Table team. The latest features wonderful soups, stews and bread recipes!
Need The Perfect Gift?
Jill’s expert staff
will help you choose
a gift that wows!
A custom- or predesigned
gift basket
is always a great
choice. Whether it
is for a wedding,
housewarming or
birthday, they are
always happy to gift
wrap.
Cooking Classes
LONDON
Unique Specialty Foods
Superior Kitchenware & Utensils
Across from Covent Garden Market
localflavour.ca 63
taste
savour
indulge
www.visitmiddlesex.ca
enjoy
Map C — MIDDLESEX COUNTY
Lake Huron
7
Ilderton
33
4
Thorndale
31
2
402
29
32
22
Strathroy
81
Mt. Brydges
34
402
Dorchester
30
401
2
3
401
Lake Erie
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
MIDDLESEX COUNTY
localflavour.ca 65
The Heart of
Downtown Strathroy
THE CLOCK TOWER
Inn • Bistro • Pub • Caterer
Step back in time, when life moved at
a slower pace and dining was truly an
experience to be savoured. Steeped
in history yet providing every modern
convenience, The Clock Tower offers a
gorgeous, intimate setting for your next
culinary adventure.
66
AN INSPIRED ESCAPE
Chef de Cuisine & Owner Mark Graham and his wife Cathy
The Scene
Nestled in the heart of Strathroy, The Clock Tower was built in 1889. The
historic building has been fully restored to its former glory, and boasts a world
class dining experience
coupled with luxurious
sleeping quarters. Eight
guest suites are richly
decorated with Victorian
themes and include
private baths, fireplaces,
flat screen televisions,
complimentary wifi
The Bistro
and individual climate
controls. Diners can
choose a sleek bistro space, a traditional pub or one of two seasonal patios.
Menu Highlights
Owner & Executive Chef Mark Graham leads a team of highly skilled, creative
chefs and some of the best servers in the industry. Each menu item is carefully
crafted by the team, using only the finest quality, locally-sourced products,
many in season from the Strathroy Farmers’ Market. An interesting wine
list includes offerings from local Dark Horse Winery, and the craft beer list
features Strathroy’s Rusty Wrench Brewery and Clock Tower’s own Tic Toc
beer, brewed exclusively for the Inn by Railway City Brewing of St. Thomas.
The menu offers a mix of updated classics to innovative daily specials,
ranging from elevated pub fare to 5-star desserts. Recommendations include:
• 30 Mile Salad, with locally-sourced Whole Pig pork loin, Hayters roast
turkey breast, Pine River old white cheddar, Slegers organic greens and
Frisa Farms hard-boiled eggs garnished with julienne-style peppers,
carrots, red onions and grape tomatoes;
• Wild Game Charcuterie, bison salami, elk sausage, rabbit pâté, smoked
duck breast & pâté
foie gras served with
artisanal cheese,
garlic crostini and fresh
preserves;
• Mile High Lemon
Meringue Pie, Chef
Mark’s light and
refreshing lemon chiffon
pie topped with golden
meringue, garnished
The Pub
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
with raspberry coulis
and fresh berries.
MIDDLESEX COUNTY
Strathroy
Inn | Bistro |
Pub | Caterer
71 Frank Street
(at Centre Street West)
MAP C p65:
Fresh Locally-Sourced Ingredients
Innovative Housemade Desserts
The King Edward Suite
29 519-245-5656
or 519-205-1500
HOURS: MON–FRI 11 am–close
SAT & SUN 10 am–close
LUNCH: $6 – $18
DINNER: $9.50 – $34.50
clocktower-inn.com
Daily Lunch & Dinner Specials
• Mondays Senior Discounts
• Amore Tuesday For the Love of Italian
• Wednesday Pizza & Wine Special
• Thursday 2 Can Dine for $55
• Fish Friday Set Menu
• Big Steaks Saturday
• Sunday Brunch & All-You-Can-Eat
Pasta & Kids Eat Free!
Clock
Tower
Inn | Bistro | Pub | Catering
localflavour.ca 67
Only the Best!
FAT OLIVE
Owners Dino and Carla Dassie sum
up the Fat Olive experience in simple
terms: family, friends, love and good
homemade food. Their bistro is a
paean to the food Chef Dino’s family
has always cooked and eaten, using
the same caring attention to detail
and exacting culinary techniques
found in the best Italian home kitchen.
68
AN INSPIRED ESCAPE
The Scene
This Italian-inspired family-friendly restaurant is located in a small and
unassuming plaza in the village of Dorchester, just east of London. Expect a
welcoming bistro ambience, enhanced by the open kitchen, consistent with
the quality of the culinary offerings. Knowledgeable and friendly staff staff will
guide you through the less familiar territory on the excellent wine list, which
includes exclusive and unique Italian wines that come from a consigner.
Spaghetti & Fat Meatball with Parmesan
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Menu
Highlights
The cuisine is
intuitive, with iconic
menu items prepared
with locally-sourced
and quality Italian
specialty ingredients,
interpreted with
skill and an eye
towards tradition.
Pared-down, uncomplicated presentation hits the flavour mark. Specialties
include paninis, strombolis, freshly-made pasta, homemade sauces,
and bruschetta flatbread, with tiramisu or cannoli with sweet ricotta for
dessert. Signature dishes include a creamy, fresh semolina Fettuccine
Alfredo with pancetta, herbs and Parmigiano, and a housemade semolina
Rigatoni & Sausage, tossed with sweet pepper, caramelized onions, and a
spicy tomato ragu. Crispy-coated Chicken Parmesan is served with a side of
spaghetti in a rich tomato sauce. Other recommendations include:
• Grilled Sweet Pepper Flatbread with smothered onions, mushrooms,
arugula, goat cheese, and a balsamic glaze;
• Pan-seared East Coast Sea Scallops on a saffron risotta with arugula
and salsa verde;
• Prosciutto
Sandwich with
pomodoro,
mozzarella, balsamic
glaze, and arugula;
• Creamy Penne
Pesto with
Portobello,
caramelized onion,
toasted pine nuts,
Front of House Staff
Assistant Chef Adam Gartshore
and Parmesan
cheese.
MIDDLESEX COUNTY
Dorchester
Regional Italian
Bistro
2135 Dorchester Road (Hwy 32)
MAP C p65: 30 519-268-0001
HOURS: TUES–THURS 4 pm–8 pm
FRI & SAT 11:30 am–10 pm
SUN 11:30 am–2 pm
3 pm–7 pm
closed monday
LUNCH: $7 – $15
DINNER: $9 – $26
fatolive.ca
Italian-Inspired Family-Friendly
Restaurant
Unique Organic Italian Wines
Local Craft Beers
Open Kitchen
Ample Free Parking
Reservations Recommended
LOGO DEVELOPED FOR:
FAT OLIVE
Mushroom Pesto Stomboli
Fettucine Alfredo
ONE INK
Sweet Ricotta Mini Cannolis
localflavour.ca 69
Your Local Connection
to Flowers, Flavour & Fun
HEEMAN’S
This family-owned destination berry farm and
garden centre has been growing some of the
tastiest berries around for three generations,
dating back to 1963. The Heeman family
is passionate about local flavours! While
famous for their mouthwatering berries and
beautiful flowers, new experiences on their
farm are sure to delight your senses!
70
Rudy Heeman
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Escape to Heeman’s
Lush Greenhouse, a
Plant Lover’s Paradise!
The Scene
Heeman's garden centre is a
preferred destination for all
gardening and berry needs
for London and surrounding
communities. Extensive
grounds and greenhouses make
this a true gardener’s paradise.
In addition to being the area’s
largest berry farm, Heeman’s
also boasts one of the largest plant collections in Southwest Ontario.
Home chefs know the secret to a great meal is premium ingredients
and you’ll find a great selection of both common and heirloom varieties
of vegetable plants, herbs and fruits. With over 35 varieties of tomatoes,
eight varieties of basil and plenty of thyme, you’ll be delighted by their
fresh homegrown plant selection. If you’re looking to plant your flower
beds or planters to redo the
landscape, their selection of
annuals, perennials, pre-made
containers, trees and shrubs
will astound you. While you’re
browsing over 100,000 square
feet of retail space you can
stop for a view of the goldfish
pond from the dock and wander
the display garden complete
with waterfalls, walking paths, and water features teeming with frogs and
tadpoles. Be sure to treat yourself at the Berry Beanery to a locally roasted
coffee, Berries & Cream Latte, or the famous Strawberry Sundae (or
raspberry!) — made from Heeman’s own fresh berries. Any time of
year, there’s something here for everyone.
Flowers, Berries, and Beyond!
From humble beginnings in 1963, the Heeman family has grown
in number while the business has broadened into exciting
new areas. The third generation of the family now have roles
working side-by-side with the second generation in the
operation. Heeman’s is truly a family business and a team
effort. While enormously proud of their history, innovation
remains critical to Heeman's success. Their varietal honey is
produced by bees from their own hives. Heeman’s Hard Apple
Cider, crafted onsite with Ontario apples, is the latest addition
to the large mix of local products. Cheers!
MIDDLESEX COUNTY
Thorndale
Farm Market
and Nursery
20422 Nissouri Road (Hwy 27)
MAP C p65: 31 519-461-1416
GARDEN CENTRE
MAY–JULY: MON–FRI 8 am–8 pm
SAT–SUN 8 am–5 pm
OPEN YEAR ROUND.
Check website for seasonal hours.
heeman.ca
Homegrown Garden Plants
and Flowers
Fresh Berries: June–October
Sundae Bar
Gardening Accessories
Seasonal Produce
Hard Cidery
Coffee Bar
Varietal Honey
Houseplants
Berry Picking Mid-Summer
Sustainable Growing Practices
Specializing in Varietal Honey
localflavour.ca 71
Living.
Certified Organic.
Innovative. Local.
,
SLEGERS LIVING
ORGANIC GREENS
The Slegers family and their dedicated staff
have been busy making changes in 2019.
They have erected a bright new Farm Gate
retail location next door to the original
building. While much has evolved over 32
years of experience growing greens on
the family farm, the business still remains
grounded in simple truths. As Jo Slegers says,
“Eat healthy. Slow down. Enjoy life.”
72
The Scene
Being a small family farm, Slegers appreciates seeing its organic greens
purchased locally. Along with selling greens to wholesalers, restaurants,
specialty retailers, health
food stores and organic
home box delivery customers
throughout Ontario, Jo and
Pauline retail greens at their
farmgate store directly to
their Strathroy neighbours
and customers from London
Summer
Lettuce
Pauline & Jo Slegers
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
and surrounding areas. Their
greenhouses are producing
fresh, living greens 12 months
a year, seeding and harvesting their products every week, providing
consistency and reliability. All of Slegers’ staff
live in the Strathroy area, which further supports
the local community’s economy.
Snip, Rinse and Serve!
Slegers Organic Greens are packaged living in
soil. All you need to do is snip and serve them.
Freshness and quality is unsurpassed and
benefits are threefold:
• They last longer this way.
• They taste better this way.
• They are better for you this way.
Dozens of products are grown, including a
Packaged Living in Soil
variety of lettuces, aromatic and delicious herbs
like basil, greens such as arugula, and micro greens, for example, pea
tenders and sunflower sprouts. Check
out the website for product pictures
and descriptions, including the Slegers
Selection page, which shows mixed boxes
of product in each category, providing the
ultimate convenience for chefs.
Certified Organic since 2004, Slegers
Greens continues to focus on providing
excellent quality products while keeping
exceptional customer service and food
safety as the supporting cornerstones of
the business.
Plan your visit and see what’s new!
MIDDLESEX COUNTY
Strathroy
Organic Greens
Producer
7496 Calvert Drive
(at Sutherland Road)
MAP C p65: 32 519-245-1339
FARM GATE RETAIL
MON–FRI 9 am–5 pm
SAT 9 am–1 pm
slegersgreens.com
Lettuces, Herbs, Greens & Micro
Greens
Find Slegers Greens at Fine
Restaurants and Retailers
Available from Wholesalers and
Direct Sales
The Freshest Basil & Other Herbs
Red Daikon Radish Micro Greens
Visit the Farmgate Retail Store!
localflavour.ca 73
Ilderton
Tearoom &
Casual Bistro
13257 Ilderton Road
8 kilometres north of London
MAP C p65: 33 519-298-TEAS (8327)
HOURS: WED–FRI 10:30am–3:30pm
SAT & SUN: 10 am–2 pm
closed monday–tuesday
LUNCH: $7– $20
DINNER: from $15
thevillageteapot.ca
Homemade Lunches & Afternoon Tea
Breakfast & Weekend Brunch
Sunday Roast Lunch & Dinner
Ample Street Parking
Gluten-free & Vegetarian Options
Catering and Bookings for Private
Functions Available
The
Village
Teapot
Vintage Warmth & Charm
A Village Teapot Breakfast
Catering Sandwiches & Squares
74 localflavour.ca
Ilderton’s Oldest
New Tearoom/Bistro
THE VILLAGE TEAPOT
Located in one of the oldest properties in Ilderton, circa 1873,
and retaining many of its period features, The Village Teapot is a
welcoming tearoom full of warmth and charm. Launched in 2017 by
friends Jana Yassine and Gaynor
Deeks (originally from the UK), the
attentive service and good, simple,
homemade food — prepared inhouse
— has been well-received by
townspeople and visitors alike.
The Scene
Quaint touches include vintage
cups, saucers and tea services that
complement the historic building
and the wooden floors, tables
and chairs. Longtime tea drinkers,
sandwich makers, and home bakers
Jana and Gaynor took their years
of experience and created a place
that they would enjoy themselves.
A soothing ambiance and friendly
service provides a welcome respite for a bite and a cuppa, a step back to a
simpler time.
Menu Highlights
Popular menu items include delicious homemade soups, croissants filled with
in- house baked ham and mature cheddar, homemade savoury pastries and
quiches full of quality ingredients, buttery scones, ploughman’s lunch plates
and creative seasonal salads. An afternoon tea platter is offered daily and
weekend brunch includes a variety of Breakfast Bites. Vegetarian options and
gluten-free options are available and every effort will be made to accommodate
special dietary needs.
Traditional Sunday Roasts
with fresh vegetables are
offered at lunch and dinner,
by reservation only.
Pure leaf teas come in
silk pyramids, and afternoon
and cream tea is offered daily.
Enjoy delicious hand-roasted,
French press coffee, or local
craft beer or wine.
MIDDLESEX COUNTY
Pot Pie & Teapot Triple Salad
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
More than Just
a Coffee Shop!
CREAM BEANERY CAFE
Kim & Victor recently assumed ownershop of the O-Joe Café and
brought their friendly style to this welcoming space. They still serve
the same great coffee, with
extended hours and expanded
breakfast and lunch menus,
and catering is now available.
The Scene
A seasonal patio and comfortable
chairs make this a place to sit and
let worries slip away. Friendly
servers are pleased to tell you
about the regular and daily
specials. A private room holds up
to 15 people for small parties and
special events. Watch Facebook
for special events for families
Housemade Soups
& Sandwiches
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
such as Cookie Decorating,
Story Time and Spaghetti Made
from Gelato!
Menu Highlights
The Cream Beanery Café offers a charming home-style menu featuring
breakfast sandwiches (there are even gluten-free English muffins),
homemade soups, quesadillas, pizzadillas, homemade chilli and
cornbread. The Charcuterie Board includes a variety of meats and
cheeses, crackers, rosemary carrots, spiced nuts and red pepper jelly. You’ll
find satisfying keto, gluten-free, vegan/vegetarian and dairy-free options.
Great pour-over coffee from O-Joe — freshly ground, ethically-sourced
and locally-roasted — is the
perfect companion to delicious
from-scratch baking. There is
a fantastic selection of cookies,
squares and muffins. There are
also over 30 varieties of organic
loose-leaf tea from Lemon Lily.
Housemade gelato and sorbetto,
offered year-round, feature the
classics and seasonal flavours
such as Hazelnut-Pumpkin, Mint
Warm Welcoming Atmosphere
Chocolate, Cotton Candy, Maple
Pecan Pie and Swiss Chocolate.
MIDDLESEX COUNTY
Mount Brydges
Coffee Bar & Café
22469 Adelaide Road (Hwy 81)
MAP C p65: 34 226-490-0301
HOURS: MON–SAT 8 am–4 pm
SUN 9 am–2 pm
may change seasonally
MENU: $4– $15
creambeanerycafe.com
Homemade Gelato
Dietary Needs Accommodated
Expanded Breakfast & Lunch Menu
Private Party Room Available
Catering Available
Ample Free Parking
Watch Facebook for Special Events
Fresh Pour Over Coffee
The Nunez Family
Housemade Jams, Jellies, Spreads
localflavour.ca 75
Calling all makers, movers and shakers. Oxford
artisans, farmers and more are opening up their
doors for visitors to experience their craft in
new ways. This new suite of experiences offer
travelers a new way to get off the beaten path
and take in the heart of Oxford County.
Affinage 101
Learn the art of
aging cheese at
Gunn’s Hill Artisan
Cheese. Enter the
aging room and
wash wheels. Taste your way through cheeses
from different batches and tie it together with a
fondue party.
Tree to Table
Get your hands dirty
in this award-winning
experience, as you craft
your own live-edge
charcuterie board with
David Schonberger of Ottercreek Woodworks.
Afterward, gather to enjoy a handpicked selection
of local charcuterie and cheese.
Brewed Exploration
Bottle your own brew at
Upper Thames Brewing
Company. Learn about
the locally sourced
ingredients they use as
well as their collaborative
community partnerships.
This hands-on experience will delight every aspect
of your senses.
Truffle Camp
Step behind the counter at Chocolatea to craft a
dozen artisan truffles with owner and chocolatier,
Cindy Walker. Be inspired by local ingredients and
the story behind them.
Churn Back Time
Learn to make butter like the
pioneers did with The Norwich
Museum. You’ll churn your own
butter and add in a few seasonal
ingredients before enjoying on a
fresh loaf from a local bakery.
Chef’s Table
Pull up a seat to the action at SixThirtyNine.
Watch as Chef Eric Boyar creates your tasty farmto-table
meal, enjoy a few special tastes and more
at The Chef’s Table.
Picnics in the Patch
Bring your friends, family or sweetheart to
Berrylicious Fruit Farm to picnic under the netted
paradise of their blueberry patch. Choose from four
different baskets containing everything from meals
and snacks to unplugged games and activities.
Cut-Your-Own Flowers
Tour the fields of Makkink’s
Flower Farm and cut your own
fresh blooms with Hilde Makkink.
Join her in the workshop to
learn how to make them into a
beautiful arrangement.
COMING SOON!
Early Bird Coffee’s Roasting Lab has you take
coffee from green bean to an aromatic roast.
Habitual Chocolate will have you churning up a
batch of ice cream (keto friendly). Wild Comfort
Body Care’s Soap and Solace celebrates natural
ingredients and science as you craft a custom
batch of soap.
Take time to make a meaningful connection
with the natural resources and artisans
of Oxford County as we celebrate their craft.
Visit tourismoxford.ca/experiences to
Experience Oxford.
www.tourismoxford.ca 519-539-9800 Ext. 3355 Toll-Free: 1-866-801-7368
www.tourismoxford.ca 519-539-9800 Ext. 3355 Toll-Free: 1-866-801-7368
Head out on a selfguided
adventure of
The Oxford County
Cheese Trail. Enjoy
mouth-watering tastes,
cultural fun, retail
gems and loads of
hands-on experiences
celebrating cheese
and dairy. From
crafting your own
charcuterie board
to biting into an
amazingly cheesy
pizza or churning your own butter, there’s always
a new way to discover the trail.
On the Trail
Cheesemakers | Restaurants | Chocolatiers |
Breweries | Artisans | Cultural Attractions
A complete list of the 24 delicious
stops on this trail can be found at
www.OxfordCountyCheeseTrail.ca. Download
an itinerary, use our Google Map routes or email
us for a driving route map.
Supporting local food is a lifestyle choice to be
in tune with the seasons. Travel our back roads
to discover the wealth and diversity of Oxford.
Meet the growers, shop the farms, sample freshly
picked produce, artisan cheese, the finest meats,
syrups, grains and so much more.
Unique Local Food Finds
Bison meat, year-round lettuce, organic flours
and grains, door to door milk delivery, bean
to bar chocolate, chocolate-stout soaked
cheese, pick-your-own veggies, cut-your-own
flowers and so much more!
Community Farmers’ Markets
Ingersoll Farmers’ Market: A
seasonal local market, beside
Ingersoll Town Hall. June to
October, Saturday 8am – noon
Tillsonburg Farmers’ Market:
A seasonal local market,
outdoors at the Station Arts
Centre. May to October,
Saturday 8am – noon
Downtown Woodstock
Farmers’ Market: An outdoor
local farm market in Museum
Square. May to October,
Thursday 11am – 5pm
Woodstock Fairgrounds
Farmers’ Market: Since
1853, Oxford’s largest market
offering plenty of choice. Year
round, Saturday 7am – noon
Pack a cooler and bring home all your
fresh local finds. Visit OxfordFresh.ca to
download our map and discover new places to
shop the farm.
www.tourismoxford.ca 519-539-9800 Ext. 3355 Toll-Free: 1-866-801-7368
Map D — OXFORD COUNTY
7
59
N
OXFORD COUNTY
401
2
63
62
Woodstock
35 36
403
401
59
19
59
3
3
NORFOLK COUNTY
3
Simcoe
70
24
Lake Erie
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
OXFORD COUNTY
Turkey Point
localflavour.ca 79
Terroir-Driven
Canadian Cuisine
SIXTHIRTYNINE
Since opening in downtown Woodstock in 2005, sixthirtynine
has become a destination restaurant for the region and
beyond. Offering ever changing, locally sourced, seasonal
menus, Chef and Owner Eric Boyar continues to offer dishes
that are beautiful both on the palate and the plate.
80
The Scene
An elegant
contemporary 30-
seat dining room
provides a tasteful
and comfortable
atmosphere. Front
house service is
headed by Chef
Eric Boyar’s wife,
Jennifer, where
the emphasis is
on unpretentious, attentive and professional service. Zach Lebert directs
the restaurant wine program, which features both high quality regional
vqa wines and a host of unique international wines. Much effort is made to
ensure wine selections change regularly to suit the current menu.
Additional seating is available for up to four
guests at the Chef’s Table, for an upclose
look at the talented kitchen crew in action.
That service is often headed by Sous
Chef Sam Vandenberg, who ensures
guests have an enganging and
memorable experience. Patio seating
with a lovely garden view is also
available seasonally.
Menu Highlights
Humber College provided Chef Eric with
his fundamental skills, and working through
various positions in a variety of well-known Toronto
restaurants gave Eric the confidence to pursue a venture of his own.
Hand Rolled Cavatelli
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Beautiful Flavourful
Seasonal Menus
Sixthirtynine has been recognized
as a Feast ON-certified “Taste of
Ontario” restaurant and Chef has
earned numerous professional
accolades. His dishes elevate and
highlight what is available locally, while
being defined by flavour and beauty.
They taste as good as they look!
• Chef’s Tasting Menus with optional
wine pairings are available by
request, at the Chef’s Table and to
guests in the dining room.
OXFORD COUNTY
Woodstock
Contemporary
Farm-to-Table
639 Peel Street (at Young)
MAP D p79: 35 519-536-9602
LUNCH: WED–FRI 11am–2pm
DINNER: WED–SAT 5 pm–10 pm
SUN 5 pm–8:30 pm
closed mon–tues
LUNCH: $16– $26
DINNER: $36– $64
sixthirtynine.com
Chef’s Table by Reservation
Walk-ins Welcome
Chef’s Tasting Menu Available,
by Request
Patio Seating in Season
Local Seasonal Menus
Chef’s Table Kitchen-View Dining
Elegant Contemporary Dining Room
Award-Winning Chef/Owner
localflavour.ca 81
Woodstock
Coffee Roaster
& Café
815 Juliana Drive
(Off Hwy 59, just North of Hwy 401)
MAP D p79: 36 519-532-3127
HOURS: WED 7:30 am–4 pm
THURS 7:30 am–6 pm
FRI & SAT 7:30 am–4 pm
SUN 9 am–4 pm
closed monday–tuesday
Cup of Coffee: $2.50– $5.50
Half lb Bag $8.50; 1 lb Bag $17
earlybirdcoffee.ca
Small-Batch Coffee Roasting
Fresh Coffee, Tea & Specialty Drinks
Open Roasting Viewing Area
Café Features Local Baked Goods
Close to Hwys 401 & 403 Junction
Freshly Roasted Coffee by the Bag
State-of-the-Art Coffee Roasting
Fair Trade Sustainable Coffee
Warm Friendly Ambiance
82 localflavour.ca
Roasted with Love
EARLY BIRD COFFEE
This small-batch, wholesale coffee roastery and café was
established in 2018 by Woodstock resident and Master Roaster Elio
Caporicci and his hospitable
wife Kate. Their mission: “To
provide Oxford County with a
world-class coffee experience
by delivering the freshest, best
tasting, small-batch coffee in
the region.” Early Bird Coffee
has already found its way onto
the shelves of local businesses
such as Beantown Coffee Co.,
and into the hearts and mugs of
many area families.
The Scene
Conveniently located near the
junction of highways 401 and 403, Owners Elio and Kate Caporicci
the rustic, 1,200-square-foot space
has three areas: an open viewing roastery/coffee lab, a cozy café, and a
small retail space. Sit at one of the comfortable chairs and tables or at the
hand-built herringbone bartop and revel in the welcoming ambience. A goldtempered
espresso machine produces coffee-based specialty drinks such as
lattes, cappuccinos, cortados and seasonal features. Enjoy your favourite
drink with locally-baked goods such as cakes, tarts and doughnuts, which
might be chocolate chip with peanut
crumble, or lemon cream-filled,
rolled in sugar.
Coffee Highlights
Early Bird roasts quality, ethicallysourced
coffee beans exclusively,
for superior taste and to meet Fair
Trade practices, from sustainable
farms in Honduras, Peru, and Costa
Rica. Signature house blends include
light, medium and dark roasts,
espresso and decaf. Specialty
coffee-based drinks include the Red
Velvet Latte with locally- sourced
Habitual chocolate, whipped cream
and red sugar.
OXFORD COUNTY
Small-Batch Roasted Coffee
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Map E — PERTH COUNTY
8
Stratford
45
40 38 41
7
7
37
43
72
44
39
83
73
Millbank
42
119
8
7
Stratford
Shakespeare
107
69
59
St. Marys
7
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
PERTH COUNTY
localflavour.ca 83
Comfort Done Right.
PLANET DINER
The result of 1950’s Pop Diner meets pin-up star
Bettie Page, Planet Diner excels at “eclectic” — and
elevated — comfort food that is out of this world.
Flipping the common script whereby vegetarians
have a few token options, the menu here is primarily
plant-based. Owner Dee Christensen says, “This is
where herbivores can bring their carnivore friends.”
The Naughty Waffle
84
Chick’un Burger with Queso Fries
The Scene
Located just steps from the Avon Theatre,
Planet Diner evokes a classic 1950s retro
vibe, with candy apple-red upholstered
booths, polka dot wallpaper and local pop
art. The cozy 26-seat diner, which also boasts
a comfortable 14-seat seasonal patio, is warm
and welcoming, enhanced by enthusiastic,
well-informed staff. Large windows facing
the street provide lots of natural light and an
opportunity to people watch.
Menu Highlights
The menu is all about comfort food. Think
mac & cheese, nachos, burgers, floats, thick
milkshakes, and banana splits. But SHHH! Everything is almost entirely
plant-based. All sauces are made in-house from plant-based ingredients,
including salad dressings, “cheeze” sauces, sour cream, dessert sauces
and gravy. The restaurant has its own herb garden and the kitchen works
Planet Burger
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
closely with area farmers in order to offer the freshest ingredients available.
Meat dishes are clearly labelled for carnivore patrons, but other than the
meat itself (or the eggs on the all-day breakfast menu), everything is 100%
plant-based. Be sure to try the cashew-based banana split, bound to be a
hit with die-hard ice cream lovers. Other recommendations include:
• Planet Burger, a sumptuous “plant-based beef” patty topped with
sautéed mushrooms, onions and “cheese” sauce with lettuce and
tomato on a warm pretzel bun with Planet sauce;
• Southern Combo, two
pieces of signature crispy
Chick’un strips with
homemade barbeque
sauce, a bowl of libation
mac & cheese and creamy
Dijon-agave Granny Smith
cabbage slaw;
• There’s just nothing like
the Planet Diner’s original
crispy corn-breaded soy
Chick’un Burger, made inhouse
and tossed in vegan
buffalo butter.
PERTH COUNTY
Orange Float
Stratford
Plant-based
Comfort Food Diner
118 Downie Street
(across from the Avon Theatre)
MAP E p83: 37 519-305-5888
HOURS: WED–SUN 11 am–8 pm
open year round
MENU: $8– $18
theplanetdiner.com
Sunday Brunch 11 am–3 pm
Walk-ins Welcome
Seasonal Patio
Vegan & Gluten-Free Options
Local Seasonal Menus
Creamy Mac & Cheeze
Huevos Ranchero
Delicious Plant-based Doughnuts
localflavour.ca 85
Naturally Delicious
EDISON’S CAFÉ BAR
Owned and operated by wife and husband team
Buffy Illingworth and Greg Kuepfer, Edison’s is
truly a labour of love. Buffy runs the back of house
and is the chef, baker and server. Greg runs the
front of house and is also the barista and server.
Working together, the two of them have created
both a family business and a well-oiled machine.
86
Avocado Toast with Salmon
The Scene
Edison’s Cafe Bar is a beautiful
little gem nestled into the main
street of Stratford. Renowned
inventor Thomas Edison once
lived upstairs, and much of the
building’s period charm has
been retained. A black and white
colour scheme with touches of
warm wood tones is balanced
by the coolness of an exposed
brick wall. Chic and sophisticated
meets cozy and comfortable.
Owners Greg and Buffy each have a long food history, but Buffy’s
background in design and holistic nutrition inspired the café. “We live a
very holistic lifestyle and wanted the cafe to reflect that,” says Buffy. They
have three beautiful children — Roma, Charlie and Thomas — who are
integral to shaping their family-run business. “We keep hours that reflect
a well-balanced work week and allow us to be home for dinner with them
every night,” adds Buffy. “A true recipe for success.”
Menu Highlights
The select and unique breakfast and lunch menu is focused on whole
foods and clean eating, and is mostly plant-based. The signature “toasts”
— served openface on sprouted multigrain or gluten-free chia bread — have
created quite a local buzz. Most popular is the Avocado Toast, with organic
greens, tomato, radish, pickled onion, pine nuts, fresh herbs, topped with
a perfectly poached egg. Also recommended: Wild Mushroom Toast with
sheep ricotta, organic greens, fresh herbs, tomato, pine nuts, EVOO and
balsamic glaze; and the Lemon-Tahini Hummus Toast with crushed olives &
peppers, toasted pine nuts, basil oil, organic greens, tomato and feta.
All baked goods are prepared
lovingly in-house, without the use of
grains, dairy or refined sugars, and
are naturally sweetened. A wide
assortment are gluten-free and many
include “superfood” ingredients.
Outstanding coffee (of course!)
shares the stage with local beer, wine
and unique beverages such as beet,
turmeric, moringa and charcoal lattes.
They also offer a lovely selection of
nourishing teas and cold pressed
organic juices from local businesses.
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Grain-Free Baked Goods
PERTH COUNTY
Stratford
Whole Food Café
46 Ontario Street (at Erie St.)
MAP E p83: 38 519-275-1396
HOURS: TUES–SAT 8 am–4 pm
SUN 9 am–3 pm
closed mondays
MENU: $6–$16
@EdisonsCafeBar
In the Heart of Downtown Stratford
Family Owned and Operated
Gluten Free & Vegetarian
Outstanding Coffee
Vegan Breakfast Bowls
Nourishing Teas
Outstanding Specialty Coffees
localflavour.ca 87
A Historic Gem,
Re-imagined with Passion.
REVIVAL HOUSE
This is a destination where the tradition
of fine dining — perhaps paired with a
live music performance — becomes a
memorable experience. Housed in an
architectural masterpiece, formerly known
as The Church Restaurant, the venue
enhances the exceptional cuisine, a blend
of historical and locally-inspired flavours
that exemplify a true taste of Ontario.
88
Seasonal Garden Patio
The Scene
The beautifully restored Revival House is decorated in a rich tapestry of
wood finishes, exposed brick, light walls, gold railings, and purple accents
and banquettes. Ornamenting the bright interiors are original light fixtures
and stained glass windows. The dark-wood organ pipes provide a striking
backdrop for the stunning curved bar that is crowned with a theatrical
copper chandelier. The main room, housed in the sanctuary of the 130+
year-old heritage church, has an elevated altar that is easily transformed
into a stage for concerts and performances. The upstairs 65-seat gastrolounge,
The Belfry, (also available for
private dining) features an exotic ambience
with peacock blues, a vaulted ceiling and a
working copper fireplace. An inviting sundrenched
garden patio is open seasonally.
Menu Highlights
Revival House menus offer modern Frenchstyle
cuisine that expresses the depth of
Perth County’s food culture. Since opening,
Revival House chef-driven menus have
revealed a passion for using housemade,
local and sustainable ingredients, showcasing
the terroir and the best of what Ontario has to
offer. High Tea and Sunday Brunch add yet another layer of temptation to
the offerings. The re-imagined dishes at Revival House include:
• Revival Chicken — country herb-marinated chicken supreme sous vide,
roasted until crispy skinned, with delicate white wine risotto, honey roasted
Brussels sprouts & butternut squash, finished with cranberry sauce;
• Warm Big Bowl Salad — a generous mix of couscous, marinated olives,
toasted walnuts, boiled egg, roasted beets, butternut squash, confit
cherry tomatoes, and greens topped with a herb dressing;
• Charcuterie and
Cheese — a selection
of locally sourced
cured meats,
Canadian cheese
(specifically from
Stratford’s own
Monforte Dairy),
chutney, pickled
Warm Historic Charm & Comfort
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Warm Big Bowl Salad
vegetables and grilled
bread.
PERTH COUNTY
Stratford
Contemporary
Casual Fine Dining
70 Brunswick Street (at Waterloo)
MAP E p83: 39 519-273-5886
hours subject to change
due to events.
reservations recommended.
WINTER/SPRING HOURS:
WED–SAT 11 am–9 pm
SUN BRUNCH 11 am–2 pm
SUMMER/AUTUMN/ HOURS:
TUES–SAT 11 am–10 pm
SUN BRUNCH 11 am–4 pm
LUNCH: $9 – $19
DINNER: $11 – $36
BRUNCH: $6 – $19
revival.house
Culinary Experiences: Festivals,
Dinner Concerts, High Teas,
Culinary Events & Celebrations
Stratford’s Largest Garden Patio
Steps from the Stratford Festival
Theatres
Free Parking
Available for Private Dining and
Events such as Weddings
Charcuterie and Cheese Plates
Re-imagined Classic Dishes
localflavour.ca 89
Globally Inspired.
Locally Sourced.
THE MILL STONE
RESTAURANT & BAR
Chef Jeremy Hayton and his mother,
owner Jackie Hayton, have created an
elegant and inviting space that reflects
international influences — both in the
kitchen and behind the bar — while
embracing superior local producers,
90
The Scene
Located in a heritage building in the quiet
end of Stratford’s main street, The Mill
Stone offers a cozy and casual experience
while invigorating all the senses. The stylish
interior includes a busy open kitchen,
local artwork, historic photos, and vintage
woodwork, with a view out to the river in the
back and to the street in front, and a quaint
sidewalk patio is open seasonally.
Menu Highlights
Chef Jeremy Hayton has created an eclectic menu with predominantly
locally produced and sourced ingredients, while drawing inspiration in the
kitchen and behind the bar from cuisines from all over the world. A particular
penchant for Mexican cuisine (tacos, salsas, ceviche, margaritas) is clear,
but the menus change with the seasons and
with what is fresh.
Tacos are served on soft housemade corn
tortillas with fillings such as Lamb Birria or
Confit Duck, or other favourites such as:
• Pork Pastor — chilli-marinated &
chargrilled pork shoulder with salsa
verde, pickled jalapeño, grilled
pineapple salsa & cilantro;
• Curried Sweet Potato — crispy sweet
The Best
Local Ingredients
potato with red thai curry, green onion,
cilantro & pickled Thai chilli.
Tapas/Sharing Plates and a pre-theatre prix fixe option are available
during the Stratford Festival months. Special
food events, like a Late Night Lao pop-up
snack bar featuring Laotian delicacies and
cocktails, and live music nights are also
offered. Recommendations include:
• Crispy Cauliflower Tapas — a fried
cauliflower wedge with mole negro, salsa
roja, braised onion and cabbage, green
onion, & pickled garlic scape;
• Confit Local Duck Leg, with poached duck
egg, braised cabbage, brussels sprouts, duck
bacon, ancho cherry chutney & microgreens.
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Innovative Cocktails
Crispy
Cauliflower Tapas
PERTH COUNTY
Stratford
Farm-to-Table
Restaurant & Bar
30 Ontario Street (at Erie)
MAP E p83: 40 519-273-5886
days & hours change seasonally.
check website for updates.
SPRING/SUMMER HOURS:
TUES–SUN
closed monday
AUTUMN/WINTER HOURS:
THURS–SUN
closed monday–wednesday
closed january & february
except for special occasions
LUNCH: $12 – $25
DINNER: $20 – $55
themillstone.ca
Quiet Stretch Of Downtown
Pre-Theatre Prix Fixe Menu
Late Night Pop Ups
Private Events
Tacos & Margaritas on the Patio
Real Ice Cream Milkshakes
Elegant Chic Ambiance
localflavour.ca 91
A Fun Place to Shop!
WATSON’S CHELSEA BAZAAR
Watson’s Chelsea Bazaar is a beloved Stratford establishment known for its
large — sometimes quirky — mix of quality housewares and gifts. As proprietor
Carole Rowe notes, “Everything can be bought online these days, except a unique
experience. The essence of the store is ‘old fashioned,’ in the best kind of way, and
it’s always interesting.”
92
The Scene
As the fourth generation in a
housewares business launched in
Stratford by her great grandfather
in 1895, proprietor Carole Rowe
works steeped in family and town
history. Beyond a unique shopping
experience, you’ll find a true
“bazaar” over two full floors of the
heritage building, with more than a
little bit of everything.
Stratford
Housewares
& Gift Shop
84 Ontario Street (near Downie)
MAP D p83: 41 519-273-1790
HOURS: MON–SAT 9:30 am–6 pm
SUN 11 am–5 pm
Hours are seasonal, subject to change.
watsonsofstratford.com
Two Full Floors to Explore
Main Floor Wheelchair Accessible
Quality Kitchen Items, including
Tableware, Glassware, Linens &
Small Appliances
Unique Home Decor & Gifts
Refined Soaps & Skincare Products
Handbags & Fashion Accessories
Proprietor Carole Rowe
From Useful to
Unusual
Through shopping the best
gift shows in North America
and Europe, Watson’s brings
in strong brands such as
Emma Bridgewater (pottery),
Fiesta (tableware), La Rochere
Kitchen & Housewares
(glassware) and Smeg (kitchen
appliances) as well as Dunoon (mugs) and Gurgle Pot. You’ll also find
unusual and affordable finds for your home or a thoughtful wedding,
house- warming or birthday gift, including mix-and-match dinnerware,
lamps, linens, small furniture,
carpets, handbags, fashion
accessories, soaps and more.
There’s always something
new arriving.
As one customer put it,
Watson’s is “a fun store full
of surprises!” Carole and her
dedicated and friendly staff
and family look forward to
Handbags & Fashion Accessories
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
your visit.
PERTH COUNTY
Tableware including Fiesta
Great Variety of Soaps & Toiletries
Interesting Mix of Home Decor
localflavour.ca 93
Millbank
Mennonite Cooking
& Baked Goods
4060 Line 72 (25 min. from Stratford)
MAP E p83: 42 519-595-4407
HOURS: MON–SAT 7 am–8 pm
Closed Sundays & Holidays
MENU: $8–$16
annamaes.ca
Scenic Drive, Quaint Village
25 Minutes from St. Jacob’s
Market, Stratford Festival
Theatre & Drayton Theatre
Ample Free Parking
Family Owned & Operated
Reserve the Buggy Booth!
Something for Everyone
Homemade
Happiness!
ANNA MAE’S BAKERY
& RESTAURANT
Located in the charming little town
of Millbank, Anna Mae’s draws
regular visitors from far and wide.
The scenic drive into the heart
of Amish Country is part of the
appeal, but so is the anticipation of
a hot homemade meal and a slice
of your favourite pie, and bringing
home some of the best fresh baked
goods available anywhere.
The Scene
Anna Mae’s has been owned and
operated by the Herrfort family since
2001, and their warm professional staff
Broasted Chicken
Friendly Professional Service
offers large dollops of small town hospitality throughout your visit. Stroll
through the gift shop and enticing bakery, where everything is available
for eat-in or takeout. The Amish-inspired Buggy Booth is a fun spot for a
group of four, but you’ll find plenty of comfortable seating in the bright and
airy dining rooms.
Menu Highlights
Anna Mae’s is FAMOUS for its Mennonite cooking and baking. (You can catch
their episode on Food Network’s Ya Gotta Eat Here! on Anna Mae’s website.)
The Broasted Chicken is highly recommended. Fresh, marinated chicken is
dusted in special seasonings ang broasted to a crisp, golden brown. Choose a
portion size for your meal and your choice of light or dark meat and sides.
On Mondays enjoy All You Can Eat Fish & Chips. There are plenty of other
choices, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-concious options. But
remember dessert!
Anna Mae’s features
over 17 varieties of
homemade pies
and many other
homemade goodies
including breads,
tarts, muffins, cookies
and cheesecakes. All
are baked fresh daily.
Over 17 Varieties
Gluten-free baking is
of Homemade Pies
The Heart of Amish Country! also available.
94 localflavour.ca PERTH COUNTY Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Let’s Meet at The Hub!
THE HUB
These are long-respected
proponents of the “buy
local” and “farm-totable”
movements, with a
demonstrated commitment
to sustainable farming and
growing practices. The good
folks at The Hub stock their
market with a well-curated
The Highest Quality Local Meats variety of local, organic and
unique artisanal and gourmet
food products. The butchery program supports area farmers while
offering the highest quality meats. A full café offers breakfast, lunch
and dinner. This is truly “The Hub” of Stratford’s culinary scene!
The Scene
Centrally located on Stratford’s historic Market Square, The Hub Fine
Foods Market and Butchery is a funky industrial space. The Café
has a warm and welcoming vibe, serving locally-roasted coffee and
freshly made treats from the bakery. The Deli offers pre-made artisanal
sandwiches, wraps, salads, charcuterie and hot bar options, or make
your own culinary masterpiece, with inspiring choices available. Enjoy
your meal in the cozy café or take away the perfect picnic. The Hub is
also fully licensed on both floors.
Market & Menu Highlights
Join us in our café for freshly made treats from our bakery that pair
perfectly with cappuccinos and lattes. Local draft beer and wines pair
perfectly with the deli menu. Prepackaged
lunches include a sandwich,
hearty side, fresh fruit and a treat.
Chef also features healthy prepared
dinners for grab-and-go, as well as
side dishes to take your BBQ to the
next level.
The Hub Butchery offers a full range
of local meats, including freshly ground
chuck and brisket burgers, smoked
sausages, Cajun pork belly, high-end
Full Butchery Program
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
steaks, freshly prepared meat pies and
so much more.
PERTH COUNTY
Stratford
Market, Café &
Butcher Shop
31 Market Place (on Market Square)
MAP E p83: 43 519-508-2337
HOURS: MON–THURS 8 am–8 pm
FRI & SAT 8 am–9 pm
SUN 8 am–6 pm
Closed Mondays Dec.–May
MENU: From $8
thehubstratford.com
Local, Organic & Unique Products
Full Butchery Program
Full Café and Deli
Farm-to-Table Local Ingredients
Fully Licensed
Located Below The Hub Pub & Patio
Central Market Square Location
Quality Foods & Artisanal Choices
Farm-to-Table Café Open Daily
Local Butcher Shop Quality Meats
localflavour.ca 95
Stratford
Traditional Candy
& Chocolate Store
55 Albert Street (E of Downie)
MAP E p83: 44 1-800-271-6910
HOURS: MON–SAT 9 am–5:30 pm
SUN 11 am–3 pm
(May through December)
NOTE: Extended evening hours
around the holidays
rheothompson.com
50 years of Candy-Making Tradition
Home of the Famous Mint Smoothie®
Small-batch Production at
Onsite Candy Factory
Handcrafted Confections
Seasonal Gifts Wrapped by Hand
Stratford Culinary Trails Participant
Tours & Tastings Available
Follow Online for Special Events
Assorted Mint Smoothies®
A Variety of Small Batch Candies
Scotch & Chocolate Tasting Events
96 localflavour.ca
Real Chocolate
Since 1969
RHÉO THOMPSON
CANDIES
“We make but one thing, and we do
that well. CANDY.” This company
adage sums up Rhéo Thompson’s
traditional, time-tested approach. They
have been using the same recipes,
techniques and tools for the past 50
years. In the business of putting smiles
on people’s faces since 1969, that is a
whole lot of happiness.
The Scene
Co-owner spouses Marc Johnstone and
Kristene Steed take hands-on roles in the
business. Marc leads the kitchen staff, who make all 152 confections
in traditional copper kettles, stirred by hand with wooden paddles, in
small batches each day. Kristene heads up the busy retail store and
ensures exceptional customer service to help you find old favourites and
new delights. An in-store design team creates ornate displays for every
occasion and season. Hundreds of people turn out every year on the first
Sunday in November to see the new Christmas displays unveiled. The
hand-wrapped gifts are also works of art. Rich cherry wood displays
evoke days past, and in a throwback to old fashioned candy stores, you
can select your favourite treats from a large glass showcase.
Mint Smoothies ® and More
The signature item is a Mint Smoothie® — a glossy chocolate shell containing
the mouth-filling mint “smoothie” centre, soft without being gooey, fudge-like
without being overly sweet or too dense. Just … smooth. And unforgettable.
This spawned a variety of partnerships with local businesses to create unique
Mint Smoothie® products. such as: Coffee with the Baden Coffee Co.; Liqueur
with Junction 56 Distillery; Ice Cream with Harmony Organics; Tea with Tea
Leaves Tea Tasting Bar; and
Hand Lotion & Lip Balm with
Coconut Theory. The wide
range of other confections
includes traditional hard
candies like Humbugs
and Horehounds, classic
buttercream centres enrobed
in chocolate, and an entircing
array of nuts and caramels.
PERTH COUNTY
Hand-Wrapped Gifts
Mint Smoothies in
Vintage-style Tins
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Awaken Your
Tastebuds!
Over 50 Fresh Olive OIls
& Balsamic Vinegars
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
OLIVE YOUR
FAVOURITES
Nestled in Stratford’s historic
downtown on charming York
Street since May 2012, Olive Your
Favourites offers the freshest and
finest (and largest!) selection of Extra
Virgin Olive Oils (EVOO), flavoured
olive oils and balsamic vinegars.
Guaranteed Fresh
Olive Your Favouries carries EVOO
from both the Southern and Northern
Hemispheres ... always fresh and first
pressed! All of the Ultra Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oils are third party lab
tested to verify authenticity, quality and purity. The crush date is noted on the
fusti (storage vessel) tag
along with the chemistry
breakdown. This allows you
to make a fully educated
decision when purchasing.
Balsamic vinegars from
Modena Italy begin with a
grape must, cooked over
an open wood fire, and
are made without added
thickeners, sweeteners or caramel colour. This ensures both a healthy
alternative and delicious salad dressings. Sample from over 50 different
oils and vinegars. Proprietor Michelle
Hern and her friendly, knowledgeable staff
are happy to suggest over 40 different
recommendations for balsamic vinegar and
olive oil pairings. Taste for yourself. Their
favourites may soon become yours!
You will also find a curated selection
of delicious rubs, flavoured salts, pesto,
a variety of stuffed olives from Greece,
truffle salt, beautiful and locally made
cutting boards and serving trays,
Australian Olive Oil Soothing Balm (made
More Delicious Products
with lemon and tea tree oil) and a variety of
exciting cookbooks.
PERTH COUNTY
Stratford
Olive Oil & Balsamic
Vinegar Tasting Bar
21 York Street
MAP E p83: 45 519-508-1757
MAY– DECEMBER SUMMER HOURS:
TUES–THURS 10 am–5 pm
FRI 10 am–6 pm
SAT 10 am–5 pm
SUN 12 noon–4 pm
closed monday
jANUARY–APRIL WINTER HOURS:
TUES–THURS 10:30 am–5 pm
FRI 10:30 am–6 pm
SAT 10:30 am–5 pm
closed sunday & monday
Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Flavoured Olive
Oils (fused & infused), White and
Dark Balsamic Vinegars $14–$34
Traditional Dark Balsamic Vinegar
$15–$36
Speciality Oils $15–$40
oliveyourfavourites.com
Convenient Parking
Daily Tasting Experience
Private Tasting Parties
Free Bottle Rewards Program
Stratford Taste Trails Partner
Sample & Gift Packs Available
Free Daily Tasting Experiences
localflavour.ca 97
Stratford
indulge
Feast on delicious eats,
inhale the historic charm,
and savour the splendour
of our beaches.
Once indulge
you visit Goderich,
your heart will never leave.
Feast on delicious eats,
inhale the historic charm,
and savour the splendour
of our beaches.
Once you visit Goderich,
goderich.ca / 1.800.280.7637
your heart will never leave.
goderich.ca / 1.800.280.7637
98 localflavour.ca
PERTH COUNTY
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Map F — HURON COUNTY
Lake Huron
86
4
Goderich
48
Blyth
68
Bayfield
8
21
46
Zurich
Grand Bend
Exeter
47
Stratford
4
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
HURON COUNTY
localflavour.ca 99
Where Heritage is
Infused into Every
Vine and Vintage
HESSENLAND INN
In an idyllic location halfway between Grand Bend
and Bayfield, steps from the Lake Huron Shore,
Hessenland Inn offers historic charm with modern
comfort. Second-generation owners/innkeepers Chef
Frank Ihrig and Event Co-ordinator Liz Ihrig have
added a vineyard (now producing!) to an impressive
list of onsite amenities.
Long Table Vineyard Dinners
100
The Scene
Sprawling lawns and
gardens and a five-acre
vineyard lead to private
beach access. An inviting
saltwater pool and indoor
whirlpool are available
for guests. Vintage
“European Country
Inn” features with
stylish updates create
a warm ambiance, making this a popular locale for weddings and other
celebrations. The Coach House Reception Hall is available, along with a
panoramic Garden Room, and the Inn’s Dining Room is a welcoming spot for
a comfortable meal any time.
Menu
Highlights
“Surrounded by qualitydriven
producers and
farmers and bountiful Lake
Huron, we truly live in the
bread basket of Ontario,”
says internationallytrained
Head Chef Frank
Ihrig. Hessenland, Feast
ON-certified, features
traditional German fare favourites and celebrates innovative local cuisine.
Signature dining events — such as the summer’s Mongolian Grill evenings,
Long Table Vineyard Dinners, Soulitude Retreats, Novemberfest and
more — offer a range of menus and
experiences, from intimate tables
to grander group experiences.
Recommendations include:
• Ontario’s West Coast Lakefood
Chowder featuring fresh Lake
Huron fish;
• Rouladen, a German speciality,
thinly sliced beef rolled with
vegetables and double-smoked
Metzger’s bacon;
• Pork Schnitzel, handmade on a
Co-owner & Head
Chef Frank Ihrig
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
daily basis, breaded, sautéed and
served traditionally with lemon or a
housemade sauce.
HURON COUNTY
Zurich
German-inspired
Farm-to-Table,
Winery & Inn
72981 Bluewater Highway (Hwy 21)
MAP F p99:
47 519-236-7707
or 1-866 -543-7736
OPEN APRIL–DECEMBER
Refer to Website for Hours
Average: $12 apps, $22 mains
hessenland.com
Steps from Lake Huron
Private Beach Access
Modern & Heritage Accommodations
Saltwater Pool, Indoor Whirlpool
Coach House Reception Hall
Panoramic Garden Room
Wine Tours & Tastings by Appt.
The Best of Local Ingredients
Fresh Housemade Desserts
Group Dining Experiences
localflavour.ca 101
Exeter
Contemporary
Farm-to-Table
Cuisine &
Farmers’ Market
527 Main Street (Hwy 4)
MAP F p99: 46 519-235-3030
LUNCH: TUES–SAT 11 am–2 pm
DINNER: TUES–SAT 4:30 pm–9 p
LUNCH: $8– $18
DINNER: $16– $40
eddingtons.ca
Menu Changes Seasonally
Fully Covered Heated Summer Patio
Live Music Friday Nights
Adventure Culinary Tours
Eddington’s Premium Craft Beers
Ample Free Parking
Close to Theatres
Fresh from Eddington’s Farm
Covered & Heated Summer Patio
Proudly, Truly,
Farm to Table.
EDDINGTON’S
OF EXETER
For over two decades, Eddington’s
of Exeter has maintained a
dedicated focus on personalized
service, seasonally-inspired
menus and a value-driven
customer experience. Expect
quality ingredients at their peak of
freshness at any given time, fresh off
the vine, picked from the tree, foraged
from the forest or dug up from the earth.
The Scene
Local, Delicious
Ingredients
The yellow brick Italianate-style mansion on Main Street stands out with
decorative bracket eaves, large bay windows and a well-manicured lawn
with mature maple trees. This is the original Carling homestead (circa
1870s), a designated historic landmark. Contemporary updates from
two extensive renovations, including an additional 20-seat dining room
to ensure well-spaced tables and a tri-level fully-shaded seasonal deck
for up to 60 people, blend smoothly with original features such as the
elegant 12-foot ceilings upstairs and down.
Menu Highlights
Eddington’s team —Chef/owner James Eddington, Chef Patrick Grogan,
and Chef Lori Debrower — is known for contemporary, casual fine cooking
with a rustic charm. Eddington’s is Feast ON-certified, and Chef Eddington
farms 16 acres on the shores of Lake Huron, and other land with extensive
gardens, growing over 25 varieties of fruits and vegetables that get on the
menu at their peak freshness. Signature dishes include Lake Huron Pickerel
with herb salsa verde, gourmet confit potato fry and vegetables, and an
exquisite Seasoned Breast of Chicken with Brie and caramelized apples,
new potatoes and vegetable.
Also recommended are the
Local Filet Mignon with shallot
merlot au jus, garlic potato mash
and vegetable, and the vegan
Legume Vegetable Wellington
with puff pastry, roasted beet
risotto and market vegetables.
Father’s Day BBQ with
Chef James Eddington (right)
Seasonal from-Scratch Menus
and Chef Patrick Grogan
102 localflavour.ca HURON COUNTY Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
As Always,
Like Never Before
BENMILLER INN & SPA
Nestled in the rustic hamlet of Benmiller, just outside Goderich
on the Maitland River, Benmiller Inn & Spa is an ideal setting for
a weekend getaway, a
romantic retreat or a few
restful days away from the
city. The lovingly-restored
19th-century woollen and
grist mills are secluded and
peaceful, while providing
every modern convenience.
Autumn at Benmiller Inn
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
The Scene
The historic Woollen Mill used
to manufacture wool blankets in
the early 1900s and is now home to 12 unique guest rooms, as well as Guest
Reception, Jonathan’s Lounge, and the Ivey and Miller Dining Rooms. While
enjoying dinner, you can take in the beautiful sight of Sharpe’s Creek and the
meticulously manicured gardens. After dinner, relax with drinks in the Lounge
beside the roaring fireplace. The River Mill, a former grist mill, overlooks the
Maitland River and houses 21 rooms, an indoor heated pool and sauna, as
well as the Petit Aveda Spa, offering aesthetic and therapeutic treatments.
Menu Highlights
The culinary team is committed to providing an exceptional dining experience
while still offering the comfort of a home-cooked meal. They use fresh, local
ingredients to prepare in-house soups, sauces, dressings and desserts.
To complement the natural setting of The Benmiller, brunch at the Inn is
a seasonally-changing affair drawing inspiration from the farms of Huron
County and their bounty. The Ivey Dining Room is a winner of the CAA Four
Diamond Award and has garnered high praise from Toronto Life magazine.
Recommendations include: Metzger’s Seared Beef Tenderloin and Butter
Poached Shrimp with potatoes, seasonal vegetables and maple-whisky
spiked hunter sauce;
Steamed PEI Mussels with
smoked-tomato pepperade,
chorizo sausage and
scallions; Maple-glazed
Ontario Duck with tiny gem
potatoes, seasonal vegetable
and Schilby maple syrup; and
Sunday Brunch
Ivey Dining Room
The Big Benmiller Burger
with delicious hand-cut fries.
HURON COUNTY
Goderich
Four Diamond
Dining, Inn & Spa
81175 Benmiller Line (Hwy 1)
MAP F p99: 48 519-524-2191
BREAKFAST: MON–FRI 7 am–10 am
SAT 8 am–10 am
BRUNCH: SUN 9 am–1 pm
LUNCH: MON–SAT 12 noon–2 am
DINNER: MON–SUN 5:30 pm–8 pm
LUNCH: $8 – $16
DINNER: $10-$40
benmiller.ca
Historic Country Inn
55 Guest Rooms
Renewing Petit Aveda Spa
Minutes from Lake Huron, Theatre,
Shopping, Golf Courses
Getaways, Conferences & Weddings
Perfectly Prepared Mussels
Select Room at Gledhill
Historic Maitland River Location
localflavour.ca 103
Map G — SARNIA-LAMBTON
Grand Bend
50
Lake Huron
82
Thedford
21
74
Sarnia
22
402
66 67 Plympton-Wyoming
40
79
80
Alvinston
49
21
2
21
Lake St. Clair
40
401
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
SARNIA-LAMBTON
localflavour.ca 105
Sarnia-Lambton’s Cheers to the Coast Trail is expanding and we are so
happy to help welcome the four new breweries opening across
Sarnia-Lambton. Experience new and adventurous avours, share some
of your favourites and sample award winning wine, craft beer, hard
cider and mead, while visiting some of the most scenic and historic
locations in the beautiful county.
Accommodations should be more than just a place to lay your head.
Sarnia-Lambton offers a selection of unique settings, whether you are
enjoying a Lake Huron cottage, boutique-style hotel, Victorian bed and
breakfast or a state-of-the-art chain hotel. With so many options to t
your budget, you can guarantee a comfortable and memorable stay.
Alvinston
Honey Farm
& Meadery
3115 River Street (N of Hwy 80)
MAP G p105: 49 519-847-5333
JANUARY–MARCH HOURS:
MON–FRI 9 am–5 pm
APRIL–DECEMBER HOURS:
MON–SAT 9 am–5 pm
munrohoney.com
Honey and Hive Products
Mead & Melomel (Fruit & Honey
Wine)
Giftware and Gift Baskets
Observation Hive
Demonstration Video
Knowledgeable Staff
Ample Free Parking
Family Owned & Operated
Honey from
Hive to Table
MUNRO HONEY
& MEADERY
The Bryans family invites you to visit Ontario’s
sweetest secret. Munro Honey & Meadery is literally
buzzing with activity, and is one of the largest
producers and packers of pure Canadian honey and
hive products in the province. A fascinating video
showcasing honey production — from hive to table
— complements an active observation hive to watch
and learn about the magic of the honeybee. You’re
guaranteed to get a sweetened appreciation of bees and honey.
The Scene
Back in 1914, Warren Munro captured his first swarm of bees. His business
thrived, and in 1958 young beekeeper Howard Bryans purchased the
company from Munro.
Howard’s sons, Davis
and John, took over the
operation in 1989. Today,
a modern 12,000-squarefoot
Honey House utilizes
the latest in modern honey
production equipment. The
100% Natural Ontario Honey
gift shop offers a wide
variety of premium Munro
Honey food products (liquid and creamed honey) in a variety of sizes and
containers, hive products like beeswax candles, and an assortment of
practical and whimsical bee-themed giftware.
A Land of Mead & Honey
Dry, Semi-Sweet
For centuries, honey has been used to
& Sweet Meads
produce Mead, also known as Honey Wine.
Cranberry Melomel (Fruit & Honey) Munro Honey launched Ontario’s first
meadery in 1999, and has developed a unique
selection of premium meads — winning
international awards for quality and taste.
Sample a variety of traditional meads as well
as melomel (fruit blend) flavours, such as
raspberry and black currant.
Be sure to also try the gourmet honeys
(cinnamon, apple- cinnamon, chocolate and
jalapeño), honey butters and single-source
Retail Store & Gift Shop
nectars (like blueberry blossom). Delicious!
108 localflavour.ca SARNIA-LAMBTON Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Mighty F.I.N.E.
for 15 Years!
F.I.N.E. A RESTAURANT
Owner/Chef Erryn Shephard,
shows no sign of slowing
down or of losing her love of
French cuisine. Her brilliant
touch, alongside Chef Ben
Sandwith over the past 15 years,
has made F.I.N.E. a beloved
Southwest Ontario destination
for those looking for a special
experience. An active volunteer
Chef Ben Sandwith (left) &
Owner/Chef Erryn Shephard
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
and fundraiser for numerous
charities, Chef Shephard’s
generous spirit is also evident
in the kitchen. While she loves
workng with rich ingredients in classically-inspired dishes, she has
respect for customers who prefer lighter or vegetarian fare.
The Scene
The restaurant is divided into two sections, each for about 40 people. A
seasonal patio seats 24 and there’s a private room upstairs for 12. Think
elegant cabin with stunning artwork and funky seasonal decorations. Front-ofhouse
is managed by the invaluable Susan Tebrugge.
Menu Highlights
Daily soups may include the popular Coconut Curry Sweet Potato or Cream
of Celery Root soups. While the Certified Angus Beef Tenderloin is a
perennial mainstay on the menu, chefs Shephard and Sandwith also give a
nod to fish as a customer choice. While the Pan-Fried Pickerel from nearby
Lake Huron is outstanding, so is the fresh Pan-Seared BC Halibut, served
with lemon cream, spring peas, homemade gnocchi, and a light salad. Daily
Specials are inspired by
seasonal availability of
the best ingredients.
Your F.I.N.E. visit
simply must include
dessert. Shephard’s
cheesecakes are deep
and creamy, and she’s
playful with surprising
Elegant Cottage Appeal & Seasonal Patio
twists and sweet sauces,
cookies and candies.
SARNIA-LAMBTON
Goderich Grand Bend
Contemporary
French Bistro
42 Ontario Street South (Hwy 21)
MAP G p105: 50 519-238-6224
OPEN FOR LUNCH & DINNER
Days & Hours Change Seasonally
Always Closed Mondays
MENU: $12–$43
finearestaurant.com
Steps to the River & the Beach
Lunch, Dinner, Desserts
Comfortable Dining Room
Seasonal Patio
Local Wines & Craft Beers
Special Seasonal Menus
Catering Always Available
Fresh Pan-Roasted BC Halibut
Crostini-of-the-Day: Jumbo Shrimp
Hot Banana Won Tons & Ice Cream
localflavour.ca 109
Urban Surf Co. | Tecumseh
Discover new and unique ways to explore our
beautiful waterways.
There are many great ways to experience our 100 mile coast - by
paddle board, canoe, kayak and more. Visit us online to see all the
ways you can make a splash in Windsor Essex.
#PLAYQG
visitwindsoressex.com/experiences
Map H —
WINDSOR-ESSEX-PELEE ISLAND
Lake St. Clair
Windsor
22
401
9
3
401
77
20
Amherstburg
84
8
3
76
50
80
Harrow
77
20
75
Kingsville
64
79
Lake Erie
78
Pelee Island
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
WINDSOR-ESSEX-PELEE ISLAND
localflavour.ca 111
The Grove Hotel | Kingsville
The comforts of home, memorable experiences
and places as unique as our guests.
From boutique hotels to 4 diamond experiences to rustic retreats, we
have a bed for every type of head. Guests can get picturesque views
of the Detroit river, explore award winning wineries, and discover
beautiful trails and unique boutique shops.
#STAYQG
visitwindsoressex.com/stay
Antonino’s Pizzeria | Windsor
Windsor, the pizza capital of Canada.
Windsor-Style Pizza can be best described as medium-thick, and
similar to a New York-style. Our famous Classic Super uses staple
items like shredded pepperoni, green peppers, canned mushrooms
and the very best local Galati cheese. Come taste how our passion
for pizza put us on the map for foodie and pizza enthusiasts.
#CULINARYQG
visitwindsoressex.com/eat
Map I — CHATHAM-KENT
51
21
Thamesville
40
Kent Bridge
Lake St. Clair
Chatham
81
53
54
2
55
3
401
1
Lake Erie
52
Wheatley
3
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
CHATHAM-KENT
localflavour.ca 115
Taste the Sunshine!
SUNSHINE FARMS
Claudia and John Jaques started growing
asparagus in 1982. The family loved Claudia’s
recipe for pickled asparagus spears and soon
realized, “You just can’t keep something like
that all to yourself.” The business sprouted
nicely from there, and it now offers 33 types
of pickles, including a “zesty” version of
asparagus, enhanced by jalapeno peppers!
116
A Family Farm Approach
This fifth-generation (and counting!) Chatham-Kent family farm retains a
down-to-earth approach despite the tremendous growth in processing
and marketing their delicious
products. Claudia and John
Jaques, with their sons Josh,
Ben and Adrian, have grown the
Sunshine Farms product line from
the original Pickled Asparagus to
over 33 types of pickles, most of
which are certified organic. Adrian
Jaques is taking a leading role in
expanding the legacy his parents
created and is now managing the
family farm and business. He’s
also the man to see if you want a
Promptly Packed from Field to Jar
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
personalized
behind-thescenes
tour. We
suggest booking between May and August to witness
the operation in full production mode.
Regular, Zesty & Extra Zesty!
The recipes remain family secrets, but even kids can
read the labels and understand the simple list of
ingredients. There are no preservatives, fillers, dyes
or additives, and all vegetables are hand-picked fresh,
processed and jarred by hand, sometimes all in one
day. Additional herbs and spices are locally sourced, supporting other
family farms. While both the traditional and organic Pickled Aparagus
(crisp fresh asparagus taste enhanced by garlic and dill) remain family
faves, the Zesty Pickled Asparagus, with extra pop from jalapeno
peppers, is particularly popular as the ideal garnish for a great Caesar.
Many products are jarred either sliced or speared, great for sandwiches,
garnishes and as a snack straight
from the jar! The farm’s Sunshine
Shoppe is a great way to purchase
directly, and it’s the only source for
some products — like “Extra Zesty.”
Visit Sunshine Farms for exclusive
in-store-only products, discounts
and promotions. Preorder for pickup,
Fresh Cucumbers for Pickling
or home delivery is available. You’ll
also find Sunshine Farms products at
better retailers across the country.
CHATHAM-KENT
Thamesville
Agricultural Farm
& Pickle Processor
30043 Jane Road (Hwy 23)
MAP I p115: 51 519-692-4416
HOURS: MON–FRI 9 am–4:30 pm
Check website for seasonal changes
$3.50 – $11 per jar
picklesplease.ca
Locally-sourced Ingredients
Family Run & Owned
Traditional & Organic Product Lines
Nationwide Shipping & Product
Availability
Over 33 Pickle Products Available
Guided Tours by Appointment
Acres of Delicious Asparagus
33 Varieties of Local Pickles
localflavour.ca 117
Delivering Freshness,
Every Day of the Year
DOCKSIDE FISHERIES
Brothers Claudio and Paul Adragna are the men
behind Kimmy Sue — the 26-metre fishing boat that
plies the waters of Lake Erie to bring back the fresh
local catch for Dockside Fisheries. The Adragna
family’s love for fishing inspired the formation of the
business, which has expanded to bring an incredible
variety of fresh and frozen seafood to local markets.
118
The Kimmy Sue
A Seafood Platter
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
A Humble Start
In the beginning, the Adragna
family began their fishing
company as Four Brothers, which
then expanded into Dockside
Fisheries, as we know it today.
The family enjoyed fishing on
Lake Erie and imagined a life
spent supplying fresh fish to local
customers. Launched in 2010, the
family-operated company started
selling the most prized catches
— Lake Erie perch and pickerel
— at local farmers’ markets and to a few restaurants around Windsor and
Essex County. Although one of the smallest operations in the area, the
Dockside Fisheries name became well known
and a permanent retail shop was added in the
lakeside village of Wheatley, tucked into the
southern corner of Chatham-Kent.
A Better Fish Story
In addition to yellow perch and pickerel (also
known as walleye), Dockside soon added Lake
Erie whitefish, white perch, white bass, and
smelts. Fish are available fresh or frozen,
in a variety of sizes, whole or dressed, with
different cuts according to the kind of fish. A
Fresh Halibut!
connection was formed to source fresh trout
from Georgian Bay, and today Dockside Smoked Trout is a signature item.
The wholesale business also expanded, with regular delivery to a large
number of restaurants.
Further growth in the business has
allowed Dockside to meet strong local
demand for imported ocean fish and
shellfish — including fresh oysters
sourced from Canada’s West and East
Coasts. The popular Josie’s Premium
Fresh Wild-Caught Salmon
Seafood Salad contains Spanish octopus
and whole non-bleached squid and
cuttlefish. The wide selection of seafood
at Dockside Fisheries now includes a
thousand different products! But the
Kimmy Sue still fishes Lake Erie daily,
bringing home the local catch of the day.
CHATHAM-KENT
Wheatley
Wholesale & Retail
Fresh Fish & Seafood
913 3rd Concession Line (Drovers Rd)
MAP I p115: 52 519-825-3474
HOURS: MON 10 am–4 pm
TUES–FRI 9 am–5 pm
SAT 10 am–4 pm
closed sundays
docksidefisheries.com
Local Fresh Fish
Fresh and Frozen West and East
Coast Fish & Seafoood
Wholesale with Delivery to Southwestern
Ontario Restaurants
Smoked Trout from Georgian Bay
Family Owned and Operated
Some of the Dockside Crew!
A Variety of Lobster Tails
Fishing in All Kinds of Weather
localflavour.ca 119
Chatham
Modern Bistro,
Caterer & Event
Centre
22 William Street South
(at King Street West)
MAP I p115: 53 519-354-7818
HOURS: MON–FRI 7 am–9 pm
: SAT 8 am–9 pm
: SUN 8 am–2 pm
BREAKFAST: $6.95 – $17.95
LUNCH: $7.95 – $18.95
DINNER: $13.95 – $49.95
chilledcork.ca
Creative Casual Fine Dining
4 Event/ Meeting Spaces Available
Located In Historic Retro Block
Attached to Retro Suites Hotel
Close to Theatres and Brewery
Crème Brûlée
Prime & Pork Belly Burger
Smoked Mozzarella Ravioli
120 localflavour.ca
Unforgettable Dining
THE CHILLED CORK
RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE
Nestled within the Retro Suites Hotel’s
century-old building, located in
Downtown Chatham’s charming
“retro block,” the Chilled Cork offers
an inspiring culinary experience for
locals and travellers alike. An eclectic
ambience and a contemporary “from
scratch” approach to classic favourites
— combined with unparalleled service —
truly make this a food lover’s haven.
The Scene
Guests are captivated by the welcoming
atmosphere. Exposed brick walls enhance the
heritage feel of the space, while iconic pop-culture pieces, original modern
art and stunning neon offer a contemporary vibe. The balance is perfect
for a special meal, a casual business lunch, or just a quiet respite with a
glass of wine and a nibble of something delicious. Bar specialties include
local craft beer, frozen cocktails, loaded Caesars and a strong list of scotch,
spirits, and local and international wines. Professional consistent service is
delivered with a dash of small-town hospitality.
Menu Highlights
The Chilled Cork culinary team offer a modern take on classic cuisine. They
source the freshest ingredients Southwest Ontario has to offer and pair
them with exceptional quality steak and seafood from around the globe.
Exquisite desserts are made in-house, such as Vanilla Bean Cheesecake or
gluten-free Chocolate à la Mode. Other recommendations include:
• Crème Brûlée French Toast composed of vanilla, cream, brown sugar,
whipping cream and
fresh fruit;
• Hand-cut Calamari with
house seasoning and
spicy aioli dip;
• Perch and Fries served
with coleslaw and house
tartar sauce;
• Hand-carved Prime Rib
with signature jus and
seasonal vegetables.
CHATHAM-KENT
Harvest Salad
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
A Step Closer to Italy
MAMMA MARIA’S
RISTORANTE
From the moment you enter, you are immediately immersed in
old world atmosphere.
You are in another
place, another time, a
step closer to Italy ...
a step closer to home!
Mamma Maria’s is an
intimate, relaxed and
welcoming restaurant
that has built a strong
reputation specializing
in traditional Italian food with style and substance.
The Scene
The dining room and bar feature warm interlocking stone tiles, red brick
and stucco walls with murals and frescos, eclectic lighting fixtures and
overhead fans. Tucked in the back of Mamma Maria’s, a stunning private
dining area is perfect for special events, celebrations and parties. There are
street-side tables and a 50-seat patio with red-checkered tablecloths and
umbrellas off the private room that overlooks the Thames River.
Menu Highlights
The regionally-inspired menu offers well-presented Italian comfort foods
to whet every appetite. Expect a wide variety of classic pizzas, bruschetta,
pastas and risottos — along with an extensive, well thought out wine list.
The from-scratch kitchen is purist about its ingredients but not afraid to
break Italian food rules, sometimes infusing more local ingredients. At lunch
there’s a broad selection of paninis, rustic flatbreads and a charcuteria
board, and favourites like Vitello Parmigiana or Pollo Toscano, a chicken
breast layered with garlic cream sauce, spinach, roasted peppers and
mozzarella. Dinner might
be Pollo Di Campagnia,
or Spaghetti Pescatore
with fresh mussels, tiger
prawns, scallops and
calamari. Salmone is
stuffed with pistachio
nuts and honey, finished
Family Owned and Operated
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Gracious Old World Ambiance
with a maple glaze.
Buon appetito!
CHATHAM-KENT
Goderich Chatham
Authentic Italian
231 King Street West (at Forsyth St.)
MAP I p115: 54 519-360-1600
HOURS: MON–THURS 11 am–10 pm
FRI 11 am–11 pm
SAT 12 noon–11 pm
SUN 4 pm–9 pm
LUNCH: $8 – $18
DINNER: $15 – $34
mammamariasristorante.ca
Family-Friendly Hospitality
Private Rooms Available
Fresh, Authentic Food
Seasonal Riverside Patio
Family Owned & Operated
Classic Menu Options
Authentic Italian Cuisine
Inspired Wine List
localflavour.ca 121
Kent Bridge
Country Farm
Butcher Shop
& Caterer
10910 Northwood Line (at Mull Rd.)
MAP I p115: 55 519-351-7711
HOURS: TUES–FRI 9 am–5 pm
SAT 9 am–3 pm
Closed Sunday, Monday & Holidays
LUNCH: $12 – $18
DINNER: $18 – $25
rmeats.com
Family Owned & Operated
Escorted Barnyard “Walk Abouts”
Crops & Egg Grading Station
Group Tours & Meals Served by
Prearranged Reservations
Pig Roast Specialists
Full Menu Catering Available —
Windsor to London to Sarnia
Roesch-Raised Pork Products
More Than Just a Butcher Shop!
Family-Focused
Fresh Farm Products
ROESCH MEATS
AND MORE
Just outside Chatham, Louis and Clara Roesch and family have
been providing the highest quality meat available since 1995.
Whether you are looking to stock your freezer, feed a crowd, or
just prepare a healthy delicious family meal, Roesch Meats and
More should be
your destination.
The Scene
The quiet farm
location is a 10-minute
drive from Chatham
on paved roads.
Barnyard tours and
meals are available
by appointment and
school tours are welcomed. The retail shop offers an impressive display of
fresh meats, pre-packaged or cut to your specification, in quantities most
suitable for your family. Prepared foods use traditional family recipes,
cooked from scratch with modern twists.
Menu Highlights
Fresh Ontario pork, beef, chicken are offered. Roesch pork is raised onsite
on grains grown on their farm, without medications of any kind. Processed
to be lean and low in salt yet preserved perfectly, it doesn’t retain excess
water, which can lead to shrinkage when cooking. Choose from more than
40 different varieties of sausages, from honey garlic to hot and spicy
to sun-dried tomato and basil. Try something new! Their assortment of
Kielbasa is excellent, especially the Smoked Cheddar and Cranberry. Also
recommended is an excellent country-style bone-in ham, five styles of
bacon, and perfectly smoked pork chops.
Graded, fresh brown eggs from the farm’s free-run chickens are always
in stock. Farm-raised free-run meat chickens are also available. Clara’s
homemade meat pies, famous for their flaky crusts and special blends of
meat and vegetables, are
available in single- and
family-size servings. Choose
the perfect steaks or
hamburgers for your next
barbecue. Feeding a crowd?
Full catering, including pig
roasts, is also available.
Enquiries are welcomed!
Superior Quality
Pork, Beef & Chicken
Basil Pesto & Cream
Cheese Boneless
Capicola Roasts
Graded Fresh Free-Run Eggs
122 localflavour.ca CHATHAM-KENT Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Map J — ELGIN COUNTY
N
3
2
401
402
3
58
401
61
St. Thomas
4
56
Port Stanley
Belmont
57
Lake Erie
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
ELGIN COUNTY
localflavour.ca 123
Modern Farmhouse Cuisine,
Old Fashioned Hospitality
THE WINDJAMMER INN
Exuding a warmth and ambiance only found in genuine
heritage buildings, the Inn provides the perfect setting
for dining on fresh produce from the lake and garden,
expertly prepared and beautifully presented.
124
Chef de Cuisine & Owner Mark
Graham and his wife Cathy
Owner/Chef Kim Saunders
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
The Scene
A block from Port Stanley’s charming
harbour, the Inn was built in 1854 and
has been lovingly restored. Cozy seating
arrangements include a vintage harvest
table for large groups or Chef’s Tastings.
In season, there are additional tables on
the wraparound veranda. For overnight
stays, the Inn has three tastefully appointed
rooms with modern amenities and two
Premium Jacuzzi Suites next door.
Menu Highlights
Owner and accomplished chef Kim
Saunders sources her ingredients from
the large Elgin County farm network,
seeking local and organic, ethicallyraised
products. Saunders also grows many of her own herbs, edible
flowers and heirloom vegetables in the gardens surrounding the Inn.
Chef notes her Feast ON-certified seasonal menu is subject to change
“at the whim of the Kitchen Spirits and Mother Nature !” Exceptional finds
are the basis of Daily Specials, while the regular menu has been developed
within innovative Flora and Fauna Collections. The Flora Collection is
predominantly plant-forward dishes and most can be prepared fully plantbased
upon request. Recommendations here include the Harvest Bowl
with local veggies, grains, beans and “daily fixin’s” and Southern Crunch
Cauliflower with an Alabama tailgate sauce and siracha maple drizzle.
The Fauna Collection ranges from
delicious Pan-Seared Scallops with brown
butter corn purée and bacon & tomato
salsa, to Sterling Silver Beef Tenderloin
with Yukon Gold savoury wedges and a
smoked onion “steak sauce.”
At Weekend Brunch, expect to find
a hearty Farmer’s Breakfast of perfect
scrambled eggs with chives, herbed
home fries, bacon, farmer’s sausage
and ancient grain toast. The Fisher’s
Breakfast substitutes cornmeal-crusted
perch for the Farmer’s meats. Plantbased
options are also available, and the
The Harvest Table & Bar
market-inspired Soup of the Moment is
reliably inspired and delectable.
ELGIN COUNTY
Port Stanley
Farm-to-Table
Cuisine & Inn
324 Smith Street
(Over the bridge, before the beach)
MAP J p123: 56 519-782-4173
DINNER: WED–SAT from 5:30
BRUNCH: SAT & SUN 9:30 am–2 pm
BRUNCH: $7.95 – $17
DINNER: $14 – $34
thewindjammerinn.com
Menu Changes Seasonally
Recommended in Where to Eat in
Canada for 14 Consecutive Years
Gourmet Breakfast Included with
Overnight Stays
The “BLT” Benny
Lake Erie Line-Caught Pickerel
Housemade Desserts from Scratch
localflavour.ca 125
Replenish. Revitalize.
Relax... Naturally.
FROM THE MEADOW
What started out as a wild idea has turned into a
20-year-old success story. With the belief that Mother
Nature provides more than enough wholesome
ingredients to give us beautiful and healthy skin for
life, this family-owned and operated rural business
handcrafts an extensive range of skincare products
in their “Farmacy” — each 100% natural. Visit "The
Farmacy" and Jenny, the free-ranging donkey!
126
The Farmacy
A Fresh Herb Workshop
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
The Farmacy
The Farmacy is the heart of From the
Meadow, a vintage barn con verted
into a production centre and business
headquarters. An amazing variety of natural
products, made from local ingredients,
are handcrafted onsite, manufactured to
the highest standards. Most of the herbs
contained in each cream and lotion are
grown and hand-picked on the family farm,
where the second generation is now taking a
leading role.
The Doctrine of Signatures
The key to herbalist wisdom is to understand what Mother Nature
provides for us. All of the herbal ingredients in From the Meadow products
are present in sufficient quantity to ensure efficacy. They are combined
to produce their desired effects based upon the theory known as “The
Doctrine of Signatures.” The plant’s appearance frequently reveals its use
to the body, such as the fuzzy leaf of Mullein indicating its value to the lungs.
As the majority of the products are created with medicinal and complete
body health in mind, this theory has
been invaluable in their preparation.
All products are made from the
highest quality natural ingredients, such
as The Secret Facial Moisturizer. This
facial cream is fresh, luxurious, and
softening to all skin types, and provides
a gentle, age-defying lift that will help
you look and feel amazing all day.
Sometimes described as “Pure Skin Food,” it is a magical blend of flowers,
mushrooms, roots and pure essential oils. The healing plants have antioxidant,
antiseptic and ant-inflammatory properties that stimulate and enhance
blood circulation, plumping skin and
smoothing wrinkles. It’s also great
for acne-prone skin! (Hint: The Secret
cream is in the new “Our Secrets”
Beauty Gift Set and the Facial Kit.)
Check out the website for details
on the exciting variety of natural
products available. Each and every
one is fully backed-up with the From
the Meadow no-questions-asked
satisfaction guarantee.
ELGIN COUNTY
Belmont
Organic Skincare
Farm & Producer
3881 Avon Drive (Hwy 37)
MAP J p123: 57 519-269-3961
THE FARMACY:
MON–FRI 10 am–4 pm
SAT 10 am–2 pm
THE MARKET at Western Fair:
SAT 8 am–3 pm
SUN 10 am–2 pm
fromthemeadow.com
Extensive Line of 100% Natural
Skincare Products
Available Onsite and through
Better Retailers Everywhere
Natural Cosmetics & Nail Care
Shampoos & Conditioners
Cleansers, Toners & Soaps
Men’s Line & Valentine Specials
Gift Sets & Baby Collection
Natural Deodorants & Lip Balm
Scented Candles
Natural Handcrafted Soaps
Drying Harvested Plants
Family Farm Herb Production
localflavour.ca 127
Port Stanley
Pick Your Own
Apple Orchard,
Market & Café
5111 Union Road (Hwy 20)
MAP J p123: 58 519-782-3433
HOURS: MON–SAT 10 am–5 pm
SUN 11 am–5 am
Hours Change Seasonally
Check Online for Updates
greatlakesfarms.ca
Apples, Peaches, Strawberries,
Pears, Pumpkins & More
Bakery & Café
Fun Family Farm Activities
Corn Maze & Tractor Rides
Huge Play Area for All Ages
Ample Free Parking
Pick Your Perfect Pumpkin
Fun Zone Giant Pirate Ship
Tractor-Pulled Wagon Rides
128 localflavour.ca
Locally Grown
Family Fun
GREAT LAKES FARMS
Great Lakes Farms brings families, fun, and farming together. The
Van de Gevel family have been
growing high quality Elgin
County fruit for generations,
just minutes from scenic Port
Stanley. Throughout the year,
Great Lakes Farms hosts
a wide variety of activities
including weddings, hall
rentals, group dinners, farm tours and pick your own apples,
strawberries, peaches, pears, and pumpkins.
The Scene
There’s fun available year round but the fall season is the peak of excitment!
Start your visit with a weekend wagon ride around the farm. The Fun Zone
adventure park includes an animal barn, a giant pirate ship, a sand box with
diggers, a zip line, a tile slide, and a corn
maze. Grab a push-wagon and head into
the orchard to pick a bushel of fresh, crisp
apples straight from the tree. Feel free to
add a couple of homegrown pumpkins from
the patch. After your harvest time, relax in
the café and enjoy soup and a sandwich and
delicious fresh-baked treats.
Farm & Menu Highlights
You’ll find fresh strawberries early in the
summer. Pick your own or purchase a flat.
By late summer, juicy tree-ripened peaches,
pears and some early apples are available. After Labour Day, Great Lakes
Farms is in the peak of harvest with over 13 varieties of crunchy delicious
apples. The apples as well as
pumpkins are available picked
or U-pick. Don’t forget to visit
the apple barn to enjoy some
delicious baked goods. Follow
online for seasonal hours —
picking dates vary, due to
weather and species — and
special events, such as Peach
Fest and Pumpkin Fest.
ELGIN COUNTY
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Local Craft Beer
Craft Beer Brewery
& Local Food Focus
TOBOGGAN BREWING CO.
With a state-of-the-art craft brewery in the basement,
a chic farm-to-table brew pub on the main level, and
an inviting seasonal patio upstairs, Toboggan Brewing
Company immediately made an indelible mark on
London’s craft beer and culinary scene. Ten Toboggan
beers are regularly available, in addition to seasonal smallbatch
specials. Two Gold Medal-winning Toboggan ciders
are also on tap. Enjoy a pint or a tasting flight in-house or
take some home with you.
130
The Scene
The basement
houses the brewing
equipment, with
sparkling stainless
steel brewing tanks
decoratively lit
on the north side
wall of the main
level. A long bar —
featuring a total of
36 different beers
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Gourmet Sandwiches with House-Smoked Meats
on tap — flanks the opposite wall, with flat screen TVs behind it and a large
moose head anchoring one end. The 519 Kitchen runs across the back
of the room, capped by the curled end of the large woodwork evoking
a toboggan on the ceiling. The Beer & Gear Store near the exit offers a
regular and rotating selection of Toboggan beers to take home, and all the
accessories you might need.
Menu Highlights
“We’re focused on as many foods as we can from the 519 area code,” says
owner Mike Smith, describing the 519 Kitchen. The emphasis on local
ingredients is in sync with the craft beer options. The open kitchen allows
visitors to see the staff in action with the blazing stone pizza oven and a
large BBQ smoker. Chef Mike Smith (same name, different person) cooks
up Neapolitan Pizzas, from traditional favourites like the Margherita to
modern choices like the Cajun Chicken & Brie or the Beef Brisket. There
are also plenty of vegetarian options, more than usually found on a typical
pub menu. Other recommendations include:
• House Smoked Meats, in a variety of gourmet sandwiches or in the
popular Street Tacos, served with flour or gluten-free soft corn tortillas;
• Small Plates Pub
Fare, perfect for
sharing, such as Pot
Stickers or fresh-cut
shoestring Frites
served with roasted
garlic mayo, ketchup
and sriracha aioli;
• Cheese and
Charcuterie Boards,
featuring local
producers.
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
London
Brewery, Farm-to-
Table Pub & Retail
Beer Store
585 Richmond Street (at Central)
MAP B p16: 59 519-433-BEER (2337)
OPEN: SUN–WED 11:30 am–10 pm
THURS 11:30 am–11 pm
FRI & SAT 11:30 am–1 am
RETAIL BEER STORE HOURS:
SUN–WED 11:30 am–10 pm
THURS–SAT 11:30 am–11 pm
LUNCH: $8– $15
DINNER: $15 – $30
tobogganbrewing.com
10 Different Toboggan Craft Beers
& Seasonal Small-Batch Specials
Two Toboggan Craft Ciders on Tap
Vegetarian & Gluten-free Options
Store Open Daily, incl. Holidays
Assorted Tasting Flights
Thin-crust Neapolitan Pizzas
A Variety of Fresh Salads
localflavour.ca 131
Ask for Anderson
ANDERSON CRAFT ALES
Fully independent and family-run, Anderson Craft Ales
takes pride in crafting small batch, handcrafted, premium
beers without compromise. Under the rigourous watch
of Brewmaster Gavin Anderson (bottom, second from
the left) and his crew, and reliance on Canadian-grown
barley, North American hops, crisp clean water and
yeast, comes top-quality award-winning beer.
132
Tasting Flights
The Scene
Located in London’s Old
East Village, Anderson
Craft Ales has warmed an
industrial building with
a friendly bar and retail
space, a social space and
game area on the second
floor that overlooks the
gleaming tanks and
brewing process, and an inviting seasonal patio.
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
The Anderson Family
A locally-sourced and thoughtfully curated menu is served out of the new
in-house kitchen by a team of local chefs, known as EatOA! Think Smoked
Beef Tacos with peppercorn gravy, sauteed mushrooms, crispy onions
and blue cheese crema, or “Hungary Butcher” Bratwurst simmered in
Autumn Ale with a warm potato salad, sauerkraut and beer mustard. Hint:
check the social media
channels for kitchen
hours and specials.
The brewery is a
strong community force
and recently celebrated
its third year of business.
EatOA! Chefs:
Bridget Atkinson-Fee, Matt Rice & Kyle Fee
The team believes in
maintaining a familyfriendly
environment
and loves the social aspect of the craft beer community. Check out the
hugely popular year-round Run Club and the taproom events calendar.
Beer Highlights
Anderson IPA (pleasantly hoppy, stronger) and Anderson Amber (ruby red,
maltier, lighter) were the first two beers launched, and quickly established
a following. Cream Ale (straw-coloured,
unfiltered & CBA Gold Award Winning), Brown
(toasty, chocolate and espresso notes), Stout
(coffee and chocolate notes, stronger) and a
quarterly seasonal: Winter (spiced ale); Spring
(dark lager); Summer (pilsner) and Autumn
(märzen), round out a core of six flagship beers.
A 2019 expansion on the production floor
has opened up many more rotational beers,
allowing 12 beers on tap with a dedicated nitro
line. You can find Anderson Craft Ales at the
Beer Store and lcbo in cans, and on tap at an
ever-growing number of bars and restaurants.
Award-Winning Beers
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
London
Craft Brewery
1030 Elias Street (East of Dorinda)
MAP B p16: 60 548-888-ALES
(2537)
HOURS: TUES–SAT 11 am–9 pm
SUNDAY 12 noon–5 pm
andersoncraftales.ca
Family Owned & Operated
Retail Store with Fun Swag and
Growlers & Cans To Go
Beer Flights and Tours Available
Friendly Bar & Indoor Seating
Seasonal Patio
Group-Friendly Social Space
Overlooking the Brewery
Approachable Beer-Friendly Food
Friendly Bar/Retail
Second Floor Brewery View
A Quality Canadian-Built Brewery
localflavour.ca 133
Small Batch Brewed.
Hand Crafted.
RAILWAY CITY
BREWING CO.
Established in 2008, the brewery takes
its name from St. Thomas’ extensive
railway history. Heritage is important to the
town, and Railway City Brewing is proud to
celebrate that through their beer names
and by supporting cultural initiatives
within the community.
134
AN INSPIRED ESCAPE
St. Thomas
Craft Brewery,
Taproom & Retail
Store
130 Edward Street (at Currah Road)
MAP J p123: 61 519-631-1881
HOURS: MON–WED 11 am–8 pm
THURS & FRI 11 am–9 pm
SAT 11 am–8 pm
SUN 11 am–6 pm
railwaycitybrewing.com
The Scene
Railway City’s brewing operation features a
20-hectoliter system comprised of a kettle,
mash tun, hot liquor tank, and a number
of 10, 20 and 40HL fermentators and
conditioning tanks. A welcoming taproom
provides the perfect spot to grab a bite
and try new releases and your favourites
with other beer fans. A retail store offers
the best selection of cold beer, including
limited releases, as well as fun brewery
swag such as T-shirts and glassware.
Highlights
Railway City Brewing Co. has won
numerous awards and medals turning
Ontario-grown grains and hops into
small-batch craft beers. After more than
ten years in business, each offering is still
crafted the same way, using only the finest ingredients, with no artificial
adjuncts or preservatives, and never dulled through pasteurization. These
uncompromising standards complement environmentally sustainable
practices, such as dispensing refillable glass growlers and donating spent
grains to local farmers for livestock feed.
Besides popular brews such as Dead Elephant IPA (inspired by Jumbo
the elephant, in turn inspiring the
release of Double Dead Elephant
every autumn, brewed with twice the
hops), Crew Premium Lager, Juice
Caboose Juicy IPA, Black Coal Stout
and Honey Elixir, the company also
concocts seasonal beers, such as
Orange Creamsic Ale, Steampunk
Mixed Berry Sour, and Cranberry
Festive Lager. Watch for interesting
one offs, including barrel-aged
limited release brews. Ultimately,
taste for yourself. Staff would love to
show you around and demonstrate
the brewing process. Samples are
encouraged with every tour!
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
A tribute to Jumbo, a
historic St. Thomas icon
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
Small-batch Craft Brewing Since
2008
Retail Store with Growlers, Bottles
& Cans to Go
Beer Flights and Tours Available
Welcoming Taproom
Indoor Seating & Seasonal Patio
Established in 2008
Seasonals & Limited Edition Beers
Brewery Tours & Tastings
localflavour.ca 135
Made Right. Here.
UPPER THAMES
BREWING CO.
& BRICKHOUSE
BREWPUB
The first and only independent craft
brewer in Oxford County, UTBC produces
award-wining, high quality beer entirely
in-house, in two Woodstock locations. The
brewery opened in 2016 and Brickhouse
Brewpub, featuring a full kitchen offering
beer-infused pub fare, opened in 2019.
136
Brickhouse Brewpub Taproom
The Scene
The beautiful Upper Thames Brewing Co.’s open concept taproom features
a Canadiana outdoor theme. Sit at the live-edge bar for a full view of
the brewhouse in action. Want to see more? The Upper Thames Brewed
Exploration Experience Brewing From Grain to Glass takes you backstage.
Compare flavour profiles of each grain in a blind beer-tasting test. Bottle your
own Dark Side Stout and cap it by hand. Create a customized label. Then
head back out to the taproom to enjoy a signature paddle featuring three
locally-sourced ingredients and one awesome “partnership” brew. Custom
experiences are available. There are also Food Truck Fridays and live music
on Saturdays. Be sure to check the website for upcoming events.
Woodstock
Craft Brewery
& Brew Pub
UPPER THAMES BREWING CO.
9-225 Bysham Park Drive
(at Landsdowne Ave.)
MAP D p79: 62 519-290-0053
HOURS: MON 11 am–5 pm
TUES–THU 5 pm–10 pm
FRI & SAT 11 am–9 pm
SUN 12 noon–6 pm
upperthamesbrewing.ca
Food Truck Fridays
Live Music Saturdays
Brewery Tours & Retail Store
Available for Weddings & Events
BRICKHOUSE BREWPUB
190 Fairway Road (E of Vansittart)
MAP D p79: 63 519-290-5347
HOURS: SUN–THURS 11 am–11 pm
FRI & SAT 11 am–LATE
MENUS: $5– $20
upperthamesbrewing.ca/brewpub
Full Kitchen, Counter Service
Beer-Infused Traditional Pub Fare
24 Taps, Full Bar (Spirits & Wine)
Beer & Merchandise Retail Store
Upper Thames Brewery Taproom & Event Space
Across town, Brickhouse Brewpub is an extension of Upper Thames
Brewing Co., set in a historic powerhouse for an old hospital. A Canadiana/
Industrial motif with live-edge tables and bar and a large secluded patio offers
a warm place to enjoy an interesting draft, with 12 UTBC taps and another
dozen taps rotating other Ontario craft beers, along with a full bar and
wine options. This is a production facility too, so there’s a store for bottles
and growlers to go. A full kitchen offers traditional beer-infused pub grub with
local twists. Try the Brickhouse Burger — a fresh groundchuck patty with
beer-braised onions, bacon jam, Gunn’s Hill cheese curds
& Timberbeast Brown Ale gravy on a soft brioche bun.
Highlights
An ever-changing assortment of special releases and
seasonal offerings are supported by UTBC’s six core
brews: • Backpaddle Blonde Ale, light, sweet, malty;
• Portage India Pale Ale, citrusy, soft bitterness,
subtle malt; • Dead Reckoning Ontario Pale Ale, light
amber, hoppy, malty backbone; • Take a Hike Dry-
Hopped Pale Ale, light hop, grapefruit, mango, peach;
• Timberbeast Brown Ale, caramel, coffee, no bitterness; • Dark Side
Chocolate Stout, award-winning, rich, roasty, smooth.
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
The Brickhouse Burger
Upper Thames Brewery Patio
localflavour.ca 137
Passion for the Craft
THE GROVE HOTEL
& BREW HOUSE
Encountering a distinctly unique mix of vintage
touches and modern wit, visitors enjoy friendly
service and consistent attention to detail, with
award-winning beers, an adventurous menu,
and stylish themed hotel rooms.
138
Kingsville
Craft Brewery,
Restaurant & Hotel
12 Main Street East (Hwy 20)
MAP H p111: 64 519-712-8812
HOURS: MON–THURS noon–11 pm
FRI noon–12 am
SAT 11 am–12 am
SUN 11 am–11 pm
LUNCH: from $12
DINNER: from $15
BrewEatSleepRepeat.com
The Scene
Located in the heart of downtown Kingsville, The
Grove Hotel & Brew House is a top destination.
The impressive 2016 renovation of a classic
historical building makes for a memorable experience.
Professional staff are genuinely friendly
and welcoming. The craft brewery gleams like
a steampunk cityscape, with state-of-the-art
equipment producing award-winning beers.
Vintage pipes are incorporated into the bar, and
reclaimed oak tables enhance the historic vibe.
Highlights
Brewing with a thirst for flavour puts a
premium on procuring only the best “fresh” and “local” ingredients. Enjoy
a hand-crafted brew from the historically-inspired core Brewmaster Series,
including the award-winning George The
Ghost Hefeweizen and Clubhouse Stout.
Try one of the brewmaster’s latest seasonal
“One Hit Wonders” or dive deep by enjoying a
limited release “One & Done” weekly brew.
An approachable dining menu offers the
comfort classics you love, with just enough
Grove creativity and uniqueness to call
them their own. The focus is on fresh, local
ingredients that pair perfectly with the Grove
brews. Recommendations include:
• El Diablo, a beef burger with a spicy pepper
blend, chipotle cream cheese mousse,
smoked bacon, crispy tortilla chip, local
tomato & lettuce (Named Windsoreats.com Must Have Burger). Pairing
Suggestions: Lupulin Express APA, Division IPA
• Butcher’s Thin Crust ’Za with fire-roasted tomato sauce, prosciutto,
bacon, capicola, chorizo & mozzarella. Pairing Suggestions:
Paradise Lager, Westcott
Cream Ale
• North Erie Lake Erie
Panko Breaded Perch
with coleslaw, lemon aioli,
avocado, pickled onions
and local micro greens.
Pairing Suggestion:
Room 04: “Brew Master Suite”
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Peachy Motherpucker
Gose Kettle Sour
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
Handcrafted, Award-Winning Beer
Approachable Menu with Classic
Offerings
Retail Beer Sales – Better Beer,
Better Hours
Award-Winning Boutique Hotel
Award-winning Beers
Classic Thin Crust ’Za
Authentic Street Tacos
localflavour.ca 139
A Storm is Brewing
STORM STAYED
BREWING CO.
This neighbourhood hub is the perfect place
to spend quality time with friends, family, and
fellow fans of craft beer no matter the weather.
While “Storm Stayed” refers to poor conditions
keeping people in, here it’s more about
community that forms through shared events.
So grab a stool at the bar, gather around a
table, or enjoy a spot on the patio. This bright,
spacious venue is inclusive to everyone.
140
The Scene
Nestled between The Coves and Old South neighbourhoods, an easy walk to
many London attractions, Storm Stayed Brewing Co. is a popular gathering
place known to host seasonal farmers’ markets, trivia, and other events. The
bright spacious taproom is the first sign that this is an environment that fosters
community, with large sharable tables that are great for enjoying a bite and
a brew. Simple, clean
lines and contemporary
styling put the focus on
the people, and you’ll find
friendly, knowledgeable
staff eager to welcome
you, your group of friends,
or your family.
Retail Shop with Beer-to-Go & Merchandise
Beer Highlights
The focus is on hop-forward ales and fruited sours,
along with a core lineup of modern and traditional
styles, from crisp and clean, malty and sweet, to
dark and roasty. A one-barrel pilot system exclusively
dedicated to experimentation, guest taps,
and a Sunday Beer Cocktail keep things dynamic.
Recommendations include: Sunburst — a New
England Pale Ale— citrusy with subdued bitterness,
hazy and crushable; Patina — an Irish Red Ale —
easy-drinking with notes of caramel and light toast;
Shook — a Milkshake Kettle Sour — refreshing with
Boards Feature Local Meats & Cheeses
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Full, Half,
& Sample Pours
massive additions of fruit, vanilla and lactose; and The Hunter — an American
Porter — nearly black with dark roast coffee and chocolate flavours.
Food Highlights
The menu at Storm Stayed changes seasonally, with a consistently careful
curation of food options that pair perfectly with beer. Last summer, part of
the menu featured Tacos
(think barbacoa beef,
crispy chicken, refried
bean, etc.) Now, you’ll
find delicious sandwiches
with a notable standout
being the French Dip,
with shaved beef,
horseradish aioli, au jus,
and housemade chips.
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
London
Craft Brewery &
Beer-Focused Food
169 Wharncliffe Rd. S. (at Bruce)
MAP B p16: 65 519-601-7829
TAPROOM: WED & THURS 4 pm–10pm
FRI & SAT 12 noon–12 am
SUN 12 noon–6 pm
RETAIL: MON–THURS 4 pm–10pm
FRI & SAT 12 noon–11 pm
SUN 12 noon–6 pm
MENU: $6– $32
stormstayed.com
Spacious Taproom & Patio
Beer Flights Available
Retail Shop with Beer to Go
Free Parking & Bike Racks
Short Walk from Wortley Village
2 Block Walk to Hyland Cinema
17 Taps with Rotating Styles
The Brewery
localflavour.ca 141
Historic Sarnia,
Fresh on Tap
THE TIN FIDDLER &
RIVER RUN BREW CO.
Downtown Sarnia’s new brew pub restaurant
includes an in-house brewery with authentic
historic charm. Extensive renovations in a neglected
12,000-square-foot building (circa 1890–1910)
revealed long-hidden architectural features such
as 16-foot plaster ceilings, block brick walls and a
beautiful terrazzo floor.
142
The Scene
Mark Woolsey and Mia Clarke are partners in the new Tin Fiddler Brew Pub.
The beautifully renovated old building enhances a communal, yet intimate,
dining experience. The basement houses an innovative craft brewery, River
Run Brew Co., owned by John
Tidball and Woolsey. The beer
is exclusively available upstairs
in the brewpub. The industrial
decor features largescale murals
and canvases, a copper-top
bar, tufted bench upholstery,
Edison bulb lighting and plenty
of corrugated steel. Recent
expansion increased seating
capacity and created space for
private parties and a stage for
Sophisticated & Shareable Pub Food
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
bands. Historic artifacts from
the building are incorporated
throughout. An antique safe serves as a reception desk, draft taps are installed in
a vintage pump organ, and an iconic dual-sided clock hangs in a prominent spot.
A nicely appointed outdoor courtyard is used seasonally as a music venue.
Menu Highlights
Two Head Chefs — one in charge of preparation, the other in charge of
daily operations — share responsibities for a menu that offers an interesting
selection of sophisticated pub food. The focus is on shareable items such
as gnocchi-poutine, traditional fish and chips, and onion rings battered
with puffed quinoa. Try the Lamb Tacos or the Asian-spiced Crispy Chicken
Sandwich. A regular rotation of daily features includes seasonal soups and a
pasta feature. With perfect beer pairings available, menu recommendations
also include:
• Spicy Pulled Jackfruit Tacos
with chipotle marinated
jackfruit, tangy slaw, bell
peppers, vegan pumpkin seed
sour cream;
• Sriracha Tempura Bites with
crispy cauliflower & sweet
potatoes, Asian-style BBQ
sauce, scallions & sesame
seeds;
• Chorizo and Sweet Potato
Flatbread with pickled onions,
pumpkin seeds & goat cheese.
Exclusive River Run Brews on Tap
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
Sarnia
Brew Pub &
Craft Brewery
146 Christina Street N. (at Cromwell)
MAP G p105: 66 519-491-7844
HOURS: SUN–WED 11 am–10pm
THURS 11 am–11 pm
FRI & SAT 11 am–midnight
Hours may vary or be extended.
LUNCH: $8 – $16
DINNER: $11 – $22
thetinfiddler.com
Beer Brewed in House
Live Music Every Weekend
Private Room Available
Close to Local Theatre
Vintage Industrial Chic Decor
Chorizo & Sweet Potato Flatbread
Courtyard Patio Music Nights
localflavour.ca 143
Beer from Here
IMPERIAL CITY BREW HOUSE
Mike Barker, Kyle Blandford, Craig Brodie and Matt Whitney — Sarnia
friends who spent years home-brewing together and sharing samples
with friends and family — have finally answered the question about
why they don’t do something more with their excellent beers. Cheers!
144
Sarnia
The Scene
Great beer and comeraderie brought them together, and both remain key
for the foursome behind Imperial City Brew House. The open concept was
carefully planned and
is fully in keeping
with the owners’
philosophy. “Our
primary focus is to be
a community meeting
space,” explained
Matt Whitney, in
conversation with
Louis Pin of The
Sarnia Observer.
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
“We want people to
be able to walk up
to the tanks, touch
them if they want.” The result of an extensive renovation process — only
half-jokingly referred to as “Blood, sweat and beers!” — is a generously
spacious taproom. An open-concept upper
level on top of the 1000-square-foot cooler
is planned, for overflow and a private event
space, and will bring total capacity to 220
people. The industrial vibe is enhanced by a
full view of the arrays of gleaming tanks and
the brewing process.
Beer Highlights
Imperial City Brew House will pay homage
to Sarnia with the names of its beers once
they are fully established. Launching in
January 2020, the initial flagship beers will
include: Canadian Pale Ale, Cream Ale,
Bohemian Pilsner, Hazy NEIPA, English
Brown, Blonde Ale, Light Lager, and an Irish Stout on nitro. Seasonals
and rotating taps will fulfill the brewers’ desire to also craft a wide variety
of fun, niche products.
As they explain on
every can, Imperial City
is “Four friends who
let passion pave the
way to bring you the
very best selection of
deliciousness.” We’ll
The Tank Farm
Blood, Sweat & Beers!
drink to that!
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
Craft Brewery
& Taproom
1330 Exmouth Street
(at Lambton Mall Road)
MAP G p105: 67 519-491-5191
Hours will change seasonally.
Follow online for updates.
imperialcitybrew.com
Original Brews for Everyone
Large Groups Welcome
Across from Lambton Mall
Ample Free Parking
Tank Arrival Day
Cool, Sharp Industrial Design
Spacious Open Concept Taproom
localflavour.ca 145
Craft Beer
that Rings True
COWBELL BREWING CO.
This destination craft brewery is a true showstopper. Opened
in 2017, it has garnered rave reviews for its family-friendly,
fully-accessible and ecologically-sustainable farm setting,
stunning architecture, local farm-to-table menu choices, and
impressive range of great craft beers.
146
The Scene
Take a guided or self-guided tour and enjoy unobstructed views of almost
everything, including the state-of-the-art brewhouse. The 26,000-squarefoot
venue also features a restaurant and taproom, with indoor and
outdoor seating and unique event and private dining rooms. The
restaurant sits centre
in the expansive
stone and wood barnstyle
facility. Other
elements include an
open kitchen, a stone
fireplace, a woodfired
pizza oven and
an enormous screen
Cowbell Kitchen Restaurant
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
for special events. A
retail space sells beer
in cans, growlers and
kegs, as well as Cowbell gear, kitchen items, beer-inspired candles and
chocolates, with a focus on locally-produced merchandise.
Beer & Menu Highlights
Guests at Doc’s Bar sit directly in front of the elevated Cowbell brewhouse
— an outstanding vantage point serving a variety of taps. Cowbell
creates exceptional beer recipes using highest quality, globally-sourced
ingredients. Beers on offer include six stalwart Founders’ Series beers:
a Country Kolsch, a West Coast Red Ale, a New World Hefeweizen,
an IPA, a Nitro Oatmeal Stout, and a Honey Brown Ale. The talented
brewery team further express courage
and creativity with small batch limited
releases in the Renegade, Farm
Feature, and Homestead Series.
The Feast ON-certified restaurant
at Cowbell Brewing is about fresh,
local, and fun. The Cowbell team works
with like-minded local producers to
create delicious appetizers, shared
plates, burgers, wood-fired pizza and
housemade desserts. Recommendations
include a Cowbell exclusive: Huron
County Smoked Chop, Metzger’s 12 oz
bone-in pork chop with roasted garlic
Inspired Architecture
fingerling potatoes, seasonal vegetable
& blackberry demi jus.
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
Blyth
Craft Brewery
& Local Farmto-Table
Dining
40035 Blyth Road (Hwy 25)
MAP F p99: 68 844-523-4724
HOURS: SUN–THURS 11 am–9 pm
FRI & SAT 11 am–11 pm
cowbellbrewing.com
Closed-Loop, Carbon Neutral
Beer Flights and Tours Available
Retail Store with Brewery Swag,
Kegs, Growlers & Cans To Go
Private Rooms Available
Indoor & Outdoor Seating
Gluten & Dairy Free, Vegan Options
Exclusive Huron Cty Smoked Chop
Meet the Founders!
Work Hard. Shindig Harder.
localflavour.ca 147
Shakespeare
Craft Brewery
& Taproom
2178 Line 34 (Hwy 7/8)
MAP E p83: 69 519-777-5469
OR 519-276-7638
OPEN: WED–SUN
Hours Change Seasonally
shakespearebrewingcompany.ca
Well-stocked Bottle Shop
Cozy Taproom
Ample Free Parking
Seasonal Beer Garden
100% Ontario-grown Hops
Comfortable Taproom
Seasonal Beer Garden Seating
Discover Your Favourite!
True Ontario Taste
SHAKESPEARE
BREWING COMPANY
As part of a mission to redefine what “local” means to craft beer,
Shakespeare Brewing Co. is fully committed to using Ontariogrown
ingredients for a true Ontario
taste. Adding this agricultural
component to its artisanal approach
supports farmers and other small
local businesses.
The Scene
Located in the quaint town of
Shakespeare, 10 minutes from
Stratford, the brewery is located on
the main highway through town in a
building once used as a school bus
garage. Husband and wife team Ayden
and Katie were inspired by travels in
Europe in 2014 and saw this could be
the perfect space for a welcoming and
kid-friendly (they have two youngsters)
brewery. The brew house includes a small retail space where beers are
available to purchase in 500ml bottles, 473ml cans, or growlers. Enjoy a
free sample or a glass inside the cozy English-style taproom. In warmer
weather grab a seat on the beer garden patio, surrounded by cascading
hops. Snacks are available or you can bring your own food!
Beer Highlights
Six core brands and a variety of limited releases and seasonal brews
ensure there is something interesting for everyone. Favourites include: The
Reckless Rooster —
Ontario Pale Ale, mildly
bitter with balanced
malt character and
100% Ontario-grown
ingredients; The Classy
Cow — Milk Stout,
creamy smooth, dark
malt with sweet finish;
The Grumpy Goat —
IPA, strong, bitter pinelike
flavour from extra
Zeus & Chinook hops.
A Cozy Spot
for a Beer
Family Owned & Operated
148 localflavour.ca LOCAL CRAFT BEER Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Fresh Beer Brewed
at The Blue!
THE BLUE ELEPHANT
CRAFT BREW HOUSE
In 1992 Heather Pond-Manorome
opened the Blue Elephant, serving
up fresh local and international
cuisine using ingredients from
Norfolk’s renowned agricultural
riches. Over the years it became
a local landmark, consistently
evolving the Blue Elephant
experience. In 2012 the doors
of the Blue Elephant Craft Brew
House opened, Norfolk County’s
first and only “Tied House” (Pub
+ Microbrewery). Blue Elephant
handcrafts beers that employ
the same commitment to fresh,
locally-grown ingredients as the restaurant, which is Feast ONcertified
as an authentic taste of place in Ontario.
The Scene
One of the most idiosyncratic refined casual dining establishments in this
neck of the woods, the restaurant is split into two distinct areas. The dining
areas include The Thai Room, decorated with pachyderm-themed statuary
and Asian accents. Another, Bell’s Room,
features Pond-Manorome’s grandmother‘s
paintings. The more casual British-themed
Pub serves lunch and dinner, and two
outdoor patios are open in season.
Highlights
Menu offerings, made to order, are
sourced from a wide variety of area
farmers. Spent Grain Pizzas are
signature items, utilizing products from
the brewing process while being original
and delicious.
Fresh ales, lagers, pilsners, and
specialty brews are available on tap at the
pub, and for retail sale in the Brew Store.
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
The Pub Bar
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
Simcoe
Craft Beer & Farmto-Table
Restaurant
96 Norfolk Street South
MAP D p79: 70 519-428-2886
TAPROOM: WED & THURS 4 pm–10pm
HOURS: MON & TUES 11:30 am–10 pm
WED & THURS 11:30 am–11 pm
FRI & SAT 11:30 am–12 am
closed sundays
blueelephant.ca
Several Distinct Dining Area
Family Owned and Operated
Two Seasonal Patios & Shed
Rotating Craft Beer Selection
Beer Flights Available
Seasonal & Special Releases
“Brewed Biscuits” Pet Treats
localflavour.ca 149
London
Worker Owned
Organic Craft
Brewery & Taproom
521 Burbrook Place (at Princess Ave.)
MAP B p16: 71 226-667-6363
HOURS: TUES-THURS 11:30am–10pm
FRI 11:30 am–11 pm
SAT 11 am–10 pm
SUN 11:30 am–6 pm
londonbrewing.ca
Full Tasting Room with a View of
the Brewing Process
Fully Stocked Retail Store
Tours & Tasting by Reservation
Four 4-oz Flights Available
Snack Food Options
Outdoor & Indoor Seating
Favourites & Special Releases
Fully Stocked Retail Fridge
Enjoy the Patio!
150 localflavour.ca
From Plough to Pint
LONDON BREWING
London Brewing cares deeply about the quality of their ingredients
and the sustainability of their product. They’re one of two Certified
Organic craft breweries in Ontario and
one of less than 20 in all of Canada. This
is a democratic enterprise, owned by its
employee members, who seek to create
great beer and good jobs and have a
positive impact on their community.
The Scene
London Brewing is located in the heart of Old
East Village. The decor, complete with overhead
cranes, reclaimed metal roofing, and reclaimed
furniture throughout, celebrates local ingredients,
sustainable practices, and the manufacturing
tradition of the building. Enjoy the welcoming
Taproom, with snack food options, classic pinball, board games, and a
full view of the brewing process. There is both indoor and outdoor casual
seating and a fully-stocked Retail Store. Check out the Facebook Events
page for details such as Open Mic, Euchre, and Live Music Nights.
Beer Highlights
This is the epitome of local beer. All of London Brewing’s beers feature
Ontario-grown ingredients (most coming from within 117 km of the
brewery) and it was the first Craft Malt Certified brewery in Canada.
Visitors can purchase 4-ounce tasting flights and 12-ounce drinks or
grab growlers, bottles, and cans to-go. Notable flagship beers include
London Organic Lager, clean tasting for hot summer days but complex
enough to be enjoyed all year long, and Front Porch Organic Session
IPA, a bright, lively, and light sessionable mosaic IPA with subtle notes of
juicy citrus throughout, perfect for both casual and dedicated craft beer
drinkers. More certified organic brews are in development and awaiting
certification. Working
with farmers and
maltsters and moving
toward a complete line
of organic products
is central to London
Brewing’s mission to
be sustainable and
support Ontario’s
farming communities.
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
Brewing with Local Ingredients
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Something’s Brewing
in Market Square
HAMLET HALL
BREW CO.
There’s a fresh well-crafted taste of a proud past in every glass,
can and keg at Hamlet Hall Brew Co. The entire beer selection is
inspired by historical Stratford personalities and area memories,
and incorporates local ingredients
from the vast surrounding
agricultural community. The
brewery is employee-owned by 10
workers, staff and management.
The Scene
Many of the Victorian-era architectural
details remain, including tin ceilings,
decorative arches and columns,
sandstone window lintels, and a
parapet gable topped with finials.
There is a welcoming, laid-back ambience, as you sip on your beer and
enjoy a bite to eat beside the massive brewing vessels or on the sidewalk
patio overlooking Market Square.
Beer & Menu Highlights
Brewmaster Jeff MacDonald and Head Brewer Jon Zippel utilize quality
local ingredients in their innovative craft beer lineup. Dingman Dark Lager
(named for The Herald newspaper proprietor) is a malt-forward lager that
showcases local midnight wheat.
Signature Dingman
Dark Burger
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Perth County Conspiracy APA (named
to honour a beloved local band) is a
hop-forward pale ale with reserved but
perceivable bitterness. H2 Golden Ale
(named to honour The Herald Building’s
revitalization) has a slight haze and a
discrete malt backbone.
A creative pub-style menu is
prepared by The Hub kitchen next door.
The highly-recommended Chicken
Wings come in a variety of flavours —
many beer-infused — or try the Shaved
Prime Rib Sandwich, topped with
horseradish mayo and mixed greens.
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
Stratford
Worker Owned
Craft Brewery
& Taproom
21 Market Place (on Market Square)
MAP E p83: 72 519-508-1890
HOURS: TUES–THURS 11 am–9 pm
FRI & SAT 11 am–11 pm
SUN 11 am–6 pm
MENU: From $10
hamlethall.com
Heritage-Inspired Brewing
Farm-to-Glass Local Ingredients
Central Market Square Location
Full Menu Available from The Hub
Enjoy Delicious Local Wines
Available in the Taproom, The
Beer Stores & LCBOs
An Innovative Line of Craft Beers
Available in Select Restaurants
Favourites & Seasonals On Tap
localflavour.ca 151
Stratford
Craft Brewery
& Taproom
45 Cambria Street (at Dufferin St.)
MAP E p83: 73 519-305-3335
HOURS: TUES–WED 11 am–8 pm
THURS–SAT 11 am–9 pm
SUN 12 noon–7 pm
closed mondays
MENU: $15
jobsitebrewing.ca
2 Blocks South of Downtown
Open Concept Historic Building
Next Door to Junction 56 Distillery
Wines, Cider & Craft Beers
Wood-fired Pizza Oven
Family-Friendly Ambiance
Wood-fired Pizza Oven
Enjoy a Brew and a Bite!
Next Door to Junction 56 Distillery
Building Better Beer
JOBSITE BREWING CO.
Just two blocks from downtown, this is definitely the best time
you’ll ever have at a jobsite! Owners Dave Oldenburger and Phil
Buhler worked together for years
as carpenters on a wide variety
of projects. A construction site
conversation sparked the brewery
name and concept. After a look at
the former lumber yard portion of
Stratford’s old Pounder building,
they were soon pouring concrete
and their style of craft beer.
The Scene
The large and family-friendly brewery
retains the exposed and raw interior
of the historical building, allowing
full access to the taproom and an
events space in the production area.
Reclaimed lumber was used for doors and tables, and the decor picks up
the construction theme throughtout. A wood-fired pizza oven helps make
this a warm place to enjoy great beer, craft drinks, and a delicious bite.
Beer Highlights
There’s a craft beer for every drinker, with
core brands including the very light and
easy drinking 2x4 Cream Ale; the Big Pour
Stout, smooth with hints of chocolate smoked
bacon and a gentle vanilla finish; Impact IPA,
with large hits of hop aromas and medium
bitterness; and the Wrong Nail Amber Ale,
with rich amber colour and deep flavours
that hit the nail on the head! Cocktails, wine
and ciders are also available. Enjoy a Three
Cheese, Spinach & Mushroom, or Pepperoni
pizza with your choice of beverage.
152 localflavour.ca LOCAL CRAFT BEER Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Local Wines
Pioneers of Huron Shores!
ALTON FARMS
ESTATE WINERY
Family-owned and operated by husband
and wife team Marc Alton and Anne Kurtz-
Alton, Alton Farms Estate Winery recently
celebrated its sixth anniversary. Literally
pioneers in Ontario’s newest emerging wine
region of Huron Shores, Marc and Anne
have handcrafted excellent wines with taste
and quality their primary focus. Most have
received the coveted vqa Ontario status.
154
Plympton-Wyoming
Winery
5547 Aberarder Line
(Hwy 11, just west of Hwy 21)
MAP G p105: 74 519-899-2479
May–Oct, WED–SUN noon–6 pm
Nov–April, FRI–SUN noon–6 pm
Or by appointment.
See website for seasonal updates.
altonfarmsestatewinery.com
The Scene
There is a strong commitment to using sustainable farm
practices on the 90-acre property, with six acres of producing
vines. This includes extensive composting and a herd of Shetland
sheep and lambs who eat the ground cover between the rows
of vines and fertilize the soil. The winery utilizes a century-old
wooden drive shed, and the welcoming and warm tasting
room and a retail store are located downstairs in the family
home. A summer patio features a wood-fired pizza oven,
and the grounds are home to a number of special events,
including a harvest time Grape Stomp!
Highlights
A former engineer, Marc is a self-taught winemaker and
grape grower who is learning, adapting, and challenging
traditional
winemaking
practices. He
is willing to experiment and
every year he handcrafts
13–17 exceptional wines,
ranging from traditional
Chardonnay and Bordeaux
blends, to unique blends
including new hybrids such as
Frontenac.
Follow the winery on social media to keep up with events held
throughout the year to sample the wines, including Wine Tastings &
Pairings, fundraisers Grape Stomp (a family-friendly competition) and
Weinfest (a family-friendly German tradition celebrating the new wines
in production), and Wine
Wednesday Dinners
featuring some of the
region’s top chefs.
Alton Farms Estate wines
are available in the tasting
room, at many restaurants,
select lcbos and at farmers’
markets in Bayfield and
Sarnia.
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Sustainable Farm Practices
LOCAL WINES
Most Wines are Ontario vqa
Tasting Room & Tours Available
Seasonal Patio
Wood-Fired Pizza Oven
Wednesday Evening Dinners
Follow on FB for Special Events
Available for Private Events
Trails for Hiking & CC Skiing
Seasonal Wood-fired Pizza Oven
Wide Variety of Local VQA Wines
Welcoming Tasting Room
localflavour.ca 155
Patience is the Root
of Good Taste ...
OXLEY ESTATE WINERY
Nestled on 38 acres in the heart of the Lake Erie North
Shore Wine Route, Oxley Estate Winery showcases the
beauty of every season. Open year round, there is a
small, intimate wine shop and an excellent restaurant.
Spacious grounds and gardens, a generous Wine Garden
patio and a light-filled barn and loft can accommodate all
kinds of events with comfort and style.
156
Harrow
Winery & Farm-to-
Table Dining
533 County Road 50 East
in the hamlet of Oxley
MAP H p111: 75 519-738-3264
Winery Hours: daily, 11 am–6 pm
Restaurant Hours: lunch daily
dinner on weekends
See website for seasonal updates.
DINNER: $28– $50
oxleyestatewinery.com
The Scene
In the scenic and historic
hamlet of Oxley, the Oxley
Estate Winery vineyards are
blessed with long, sunny days,
light lake breezes, and rich
sandy loam soil over a 30-footdeep
limestone ridge. Comfy
Muskoka chairs allow visitors to
sit and relax while basking in
the sun, listen to live music or
cuddle near the outdoor woodburning
fireplace. In season,
the tented patio is the perfect
spot to taste and enjoy great wine and conversation and to meet new friends.
Wine & Menu Highlights
Oxley makes small-batch award-winning wines that include Riesling,
Chardonnay, Auxerrois, Bianca, Hibernal, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet
Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Pinot Noir, and Regent — the German
wunderkind — a fruity, light-bodied red. Eco-friendly farming practices,
including reduced chemical intervention, encourage a healthy and
sustainable environment. Vines are planted in a north-south direction,
spaced to maximize morning sun exposure and provide protection from
evening overheating. Plantings follow the European model, using various
rootstocks to avoid a mono-culture and to maximize the imprint of Oxley’s
unique terroir. The rewards are in every bottle.
The Oxley restaurant embraces the
bounty of ingredients grown, raised and
caught right down the road, including
beautiful produce, and fresh perch from
Lake Erie. Chef creates enticing lunch
and dinner entrées that are full of flavour.
Remember to save room for the Crème
Brûlée! Other recommendations include:
• Lake Erie Yellow Perch with house-cut
fries, Oxley slaw and tartar;
• Sticky Pickled Duck Wings, with a
honey & Szechuan vinaigrette, sugared
chilis, toasted sesame, radish & scallions;
• Freshly Shucked Oysters, with lemon,
house mignonette or fresh horseradish.
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Award-Winning Small-Batch Wines
LOCAL WINES
Daily Wine Tasting & Wine Shop
Beautiful Outdoor Gardens
Wood Burning Fireplace, Live Music
Indoor & Outdoor Event Spaces
Eco-friendly & Sustainable Farming
Fresh Local Menu Options
Inviting Indoor & Outdoor Spaces
localflavour.ca 157
A Wine Destination
Paradise!
SPRUCEWOOD SHORES
ESTATE WINERY
Siblings Tanya (Winemaker) and Steve Mitchell (Sales
& Marketing) have been crafting wines for 13 years on
their beachfront farm. Grapes were planted in 1991
by their parents and their family opened the Winery
together in 2006. Today they have over 20 different
wine styles to choose from, available to sample at
their beautiful winery every day 11 to 5.
158
Amherstburg
Winery &
Event Centre
7258 County Road 50 West
(just East of Holiday Beach)
MAP H p111: 76 519-738-9253
HOURS: DAILY 11 am–5 pm
LUNCH: $28 2-person Picnic Basket
Wine Tastings $4pp (Fee
waived with bottle purchase)
sprucewoodshores.com
The Scene
Ontario’s only beachfront winery,
Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery
handcrafts 100% Ontario vqa wines. A deep
love of wine, art and rustic architecture
influenced the Mitchell family to create a
beautiful Tuscan-style “old world” building
with large cellars. Extensive balconies offer
breathtaking views of the vineyard and
Lake Erie. The interior is accented by dark
wood trim, and warm wall and chandelier
lighting, with a 17-foot custom-made bar as
its focus. An elegant Reception Hall with
panoramic views was added in 2015. Full
service wedding and event planning services are available.
Taste wines, explore the property, or enjoy one of the iconic picnics on
the beach or patio. Picnic baskets include
gourmet cheese, deli baguettes, fruit,
vegetables, hummus, antipasto, dessert,
and all the necessary tools. Wine tastings
are available daily. Private and guided
group tours can be arranged.
Wine Highlights
With a focus on quality and small batch
production, they produce a series of
excellent vintages — over 20 different
Mulled Wine
vintage, available now), Sweet Select
Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet
Merlot (Lady in Red) are also available
at the lcbo. There is also a mulled wine
(Warm ’n Cozy) produced in November and
December, perfect for chilly nights.
Sprucewood Shores Appassimento
wines are the first and only wines
produced from dried grapes in the Lake
Erie North Shore region. These mindblowing
wines of excellent quality can be
opened now but have great aging potential
and will develop even more complexity in
5–7 years.
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
LOCAL WINES
Pinot Grigio
wine styles — all available at the winery
store. Sprucewood Shores Pinot Grigio,
Dry Riesling (Gold Medal Winner for 2018’s
Dry Reisling
Ontario’s Only Beachfront Winery
Wine Tastings & Tours
Picnic Lunches
Charcuterie & Cheese Baskets
20+ Different Wine Styles
Welcoming Family-Run Atmosphere
Full Service Wedding Venue
Spectacular Architecture & Grounds
Ontario’s Only Beachfront Winery
Popular Wedding & Event Facilities
localflavour.ca 159
When You’re at CREW,
You Are CREW!
CREW
Colchester Ridge Estate Winery
Owned and operated by the husband and wife team
of Bernard and Nancy Gorski, CREW boasts 12 acres
of distinguished vinifera varietal vines. The Gorskis
launched their winery in 2006, and after winning
many prestigious awards, they recently built an
exciting new CREW Winery & Gallery to enhance their
guests’ experiences of Ontario wine culture.
160
The New CREW Winery & Gallery
The Scene
Colchester Ridge Estate Winery —
generally known by its acronym CREW —
offers a unique experience in the Lake Erie
North Shore wine appelation. Expanded
in November 2019, the new CREW Winery
& Gallery is a two-story tasting room
and event space overlooking acres of
lush, well-tended vines. A picnic area is
available in season. The new facility offers
indoor seating for small or large groups
on two screened-in patios with sleek
tables, comfy lounge furniture
and panoramic vineyard views,
often graced with wonderful lake breezes. The Gallery features
artwork from owner Bernie Gorski’s private collection as well
as new works by accomplished local and international artists.
The welcoming Tasting Bar offers small-lot wines and tasting
flights alongside an enticing sharing plate menu.
Wine & Menu Highlights
This boutique winery demonstrates its strong commitment
to quality with each bottle of craft vqa wine. The primary
focus is on growing Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot,
Chardonnay and Gewürztraminer grapes but you’ll find a
wide variety of outstanding wines. All the red wines are
barrel-aged, while various winemaking techniques create
interesting turns on the classicss. Knowledgeable staff
are available to answer questions and make suggestions
according to your personal preferences.
Hungry? The Winery also offers a menu that you can share
with your own CREW! It features a variety of flatbreads, cheeseboards
and tapenades, focusing on local artisansourced
items. Highlights include:
• Cheeseboard with your choice of
three artisanal Ontario cheeses
from a seasonal selection, with
accompaniments including stuffed
olives, prosciutto, flatbread crackers,
red peppers, fresh figs & baguette;
• Fig, Goat Cheese & Prosciutto Flatbread;
• Caramelized Onion Chutney, Old
Cheddar & Bacon Flatbread.
Gluten-free and vegetarian options are
available. Make your meal complete with a
CREW sommelier’s wine pairing suggestions.
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Artisan-sourced
Sharing Plate
Menu
LOCAL WINES
The Barrel Room
Harrow
Winery, Gallery
& Restaurant
108 County Road 50 East
(near Erie Road)
MAP H p111: 77 519-738-9800
HOURS: DAILY 11 am–6 pm
Winter Hours May Fluctuate
LUNCH: $15 – $30
colchesterridge.com
Family Owned and Operated
Award-Winning VQA Wines
Gallery featuring Local and
International Art
Covered Screened-in Patio with
Panoramic Views
Daily Tasting Options
Sharing Plate Menu
Gluten-Free & Vegetarian Options
Distinguished Vinifera Varietals
Co-Owner Bernie Gorski
Ontario VQA Wines
localflavour.ca 161
Pelee Island.
Just a Sip Away.
PELEE ISLAND WINERY
Found at the southernmost inhabited point in
Canada, Pelee Island is home to 700+ acres of
vineyards for Pelee Island Winery and shares a
winemaking history dating back more than 150
years. With the vineyards and Winery Pavilion on
Pelee Island and a Retail Boutique along with the
main production facility in Kingsville, Pelee Island
Winery offers a unique experience to all who visit.
162
The Pelee Island Winery, Kingsville
The Scene
In the heart of the quaint village of Kingsville, Pelee Island Winery is
surrounded by amazing local restaurants, unique shops and seasonal farm
stands. Here you can learn about the “Vine to Wine” process through
interactive tours; shop for your favourite wines, apparel, culinary tools and
gifts; enjoy the sunshine
and live entertainment on
the patio with great food
and a glass of wine (check
the website event calendar
for show dates); or book
one of the event rooms for a
party, meeting, conference
or other private function.
The Pelee Island Winery
Pavilion encourages you
to reset yourself to island
time on the relaxing grounds, surrounded by vineyards and the shores of
Lake Erie, and enjoy treats from the Deli Hut that pair perfectly with the
chill vibe. The hour-and-a-half ferry ride to the island provides a perfect
opportunity to exhale and unplug.
In addition to the Winery Pavilion, Pelee Island offers visitors an
experience like no other. This is some of the rarest natural habitat in
Canada, home to over 10,000 unique species of wildlife, flora and fauna.
Birders witness seasonal migrations of hundreds of species. The main road
stretches around the perimeter of the island and provides an excellent
route to cycle or walk. If you plan to stay the night, there are beautiful inns
and bed & breakfasts to accommodate you.
Wine Highlights
Pelee Island Winery offers a diverse selection of approachable and awardwinning
wines that will exceed your expectations. The companay also
prides itself on producing exceptional wines in an ecologically-conscious
manner. As a founding member of Sustainable Winemaking Ontario,
Pelee Island Winery is committed to enhancing the environment by using
sustainable practices
in its wineries and
vineyards. Having control
over its grape supply
allows them to grow and
care for each and every
vine to specifications
strictly outlined by the
World Wildlife Fund’s
Daily Tastings
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Enjoy a bit of “Island Time”
strict sustainable
vineyard practice.
LOCAL WINES
Harrow Pelee Island
& Kingsville
Winery & Vineyard
1. PELEE ISLAND PAVILION
20 East West Road, Pelee Island
MAP H p111: 78 519-724-2469
OPEN DAILY MAY–OCTOBER
Hours Change Seasonally
2. PELEE ISLAND WINERY
455 Seacliff Drive, Kingsville
MAP H p111: 79 519-733-6551
1-800-597-3533
HOURS: MON–SAT 9 am–6 pm
SUN 11 am–5 pm
peleeisland.com
Canada’s Southernmost Winery
Tours & Complimentary Tastings
Retail Boutique
Banquet Hall & Private Rooms
Seasonal Patio
Dine Alfresco
Daily Tours at Both Locations
Pavilion Pit Stop
localflavour.ca 163
Patience & Experience.
Modern Innovation.
COLIO ESTATE WINES
One of the first wineries to open its doors in
Southwestern Ontario and the first winery
licensed since Prohibition, Colio Estate Wines has
won over 500 awards in competitions around the
world since 1980. A pioneering spirit — patience,
determination, and perseverance — remains at
the heart of Colio winemaking practices, while
modern innovation ensures the quality and
variety that satisfy today’s wine enthusiasts.
164
Harrow
The Scene
The picturesque winery is located in
Harrow, in the heart of the Essex Pelee
Island Coast (EPIC) Wine Country. An
elegant Hospitality Centre offers the
perfect setting to learn about different
wine styles and varietals through
guided wine tastings year-round.
In warmer weather, enjoy a glass of
wine in the outdoor pavilion nestled
amongst the vineyards. Watch for
special events, some in partnership
with EPIC Wine Country
such as a Holiday Open
House, March Mac’ness,
and Dip Into Summer.
Highlights
Sample numerous wine styles and varietals, with expressive,
refreshing white wines from vineyard plantings of Sauvignon
Blanc, Chardonnay and Riesling. Excellent red wines are
created through extensive plantings of Merlot, Cabernet
Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Recent highlight vintages
include the barrel-fermented, Gold-Medal winning
Bricklayer’s Reward “20 Barrels” 2017 vqa Chardonnay,
and the Silver-Medal winning Bricklayer’s Reward 2017
vqa Riesling. The ever-popular Charmat method Lily
Sparkling vqa wine also earned a Silver Medal at the 2019
National Wine Awards of Canada.
Serving both the serious connoisseur and the more relaxed consumer,
Colio has built a number of successful brands including: Bricklayer’s
series of vqa wines,
Lily Sparkling, Back
Roads Wine Company,
International Series,
Colio House blends, and
Girls’ Night Out Wines,
a playful brand that
includes vqa table wines,
flavoured wines, and
sangrias, some available
in — dare we say it —
single-serving cans.
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
LOCAL WINES
Winery
1 Colio Drive (off Walker Road)
MAP H p111: 80 519-738-2241
1-800-265-1322
may–december
HOURS: MON–THURS 10 am–5 pm
FRI & SAT 10 am–6 pm
SUN 11 am–5 pm
january–april
HOURS: MON–SAT 10 am–5 pm
SUN 11 am–5 pm
coliowinery.com
Free Parking
VQA Ontario wines
Wine Flights & Tastings
On Wine Route
Outdoor Pavilion
200 Acres Under Cultivation
Winemaker Allison Christ
The Outdoor Wine Pavilion
localflavour.ca 165
Chatham
Winery
9494 Pioneer Line
(East of Prince Albert Road)
MAP I p115: 81 519-354-9070
HOURS: THURS & FRI 11 am–6 pm
SAT 11 am–5 pm
PRICES: $14– $17 per bottle
earlyacresestatewinery.ca
Family Owned & Operated
Award-Winning Boutique Winery
Tastings Available
Stroll Charming Countryside Acres
Converted Grain Bin Stage
100% Canadian Grapes
Acres of Sandy Loam Soil
Wining is
Our Business!
EARLY ACRES WINERY
This is a passion come to reality for the Korpan family. After years
of growing grapes and refining their selection, Mike and Sue
Korpan, with their children Kristen and Bryce, made a transition
from farmers to vintners on their 97-acre farm in 2012. “We
believe in enjoying life’s special
moments with family and friends,”
say the Korpans. “The best way to
do that is with a visit to our country
setting winery and enjoying a glass
of Early Acres wines.”
The Scene
The vineyard sits on seven and a
half acres of the family farm’s sandy
loam soil, perfectly located inland
from the lake for warmer
temperatures that allow for an early start to the growing
season. The warm summers and cool fall weather provide
an ideal combination of flavour and body to the wines. The
Early Acres Retail Store operates out of the Korcan great
grandparents’ home, built in 1949. A grain bin has been
converted into a stage for special events.
Wine Highlights
All of the Early Acres wines, a pleasing mix of reds and
whites, are made from 100% Canadian grapes. After just
a few years the winery has produced a number of awardwinning
vintages. Recommendations include the Across
The Tracks Cabernet Franc, a rich medium-bodied red
wine that
exudes
succulent
berries.
A couple of local fruitwine
blends — On The
Lighter Side Riesling/
Raspberry and Sweet
Nothing Vidal/Black
Currant — round out
the delightful product
line.
Mike & Susan Korpan
Countryside Vineyard
Converted Grain Bin Stage
166 localflavour.ca LOCAL WINES Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Cideries & Distilleries
Old Fashioned
Flavours & Fun
TWIN PINES ORCHARDS
& CIDER HOUSE
There is more than award-winning cider on the
50-year-old Vansteenkiste family farm. The beautiful
timberframe Cider House is the heart of the
operation, showcasing handmade country crafts and
gift items and the bounty of a busy kitchen: jams,
jellies, chutneys, sauces, pastries and baked goods,
including the signature Northern Spy Apple Pie.
168
Award-Winning Hard Ciders
The Scene
Embrace the best of each season as
you explore the trails and gardens
of Twin Pines Orchards & Cider
House, a 50-acre property located in
Lambton Shores. Forest trails reveal
a unique division point between the
Great Lakes and the Carolinian forest
regions, with wild berries and trees
from both, such as Shag Bark Hickory,
Tulip Trees, Butternut, Black Walnut
and several Oaks. Situated on a sandy
loam beach ridge with naturally
occurring aquifers, the land is ideal
for growing fruit. Approximately
40 acres are planted in orchard,
producing over one million pounds of apples, including 25 commercial
varieties and about 15 heritage apples, as well as specialty cider varieties.
Award-Winning Ciders, Wine and More!
Twin Pines is designated an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) orchard,
meaning staff are certified and trained to determine when (if at all) to
protect the apples with a spray, greatly reducing the use of pesticides. An
additional 10 acres are solely dedicated to fruits and vegetables, wholly
grown with no pesticides or herbicides, available for purchase by visitors
in season, to use in their own home kitchens. These are used in the Cider
House Kitchen as well, located in the handsomely-appointed timbered
structure. Grab a delicious lunch or handcrafted preserves or baked
goods. The spacious Cider House also showcases beautiful handmade
country crafts, home decor, and inspiring gift items.
Upstairs in the Cider House loft, you can sample and purchase awardwinning
sparkling Traditional British Hard Cider and apple wines in the
tasting area at the bar, or relax at communal harvest tables. Twin Pines’ range
of Hammer Bent label ciders (and an outstanding perry!) are made from
original recipes that bring to life the old-fashioned flavours of British Cider.
Vegetables Grown without
Pesticides or Herbicides
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
They are always gluten free.
Twin Pines is open for three
seasons, and you will likely
find a Vansteenkiste family
member behind the counter,
bagging apples, lifting
pumpkins, making doughnuts,
directing parking and chatting
in the tasting room. They
invite you to see for yourself
what their farm is all about!
CIDERIES & DISTILLERIES
Thedford
Apple Orchard,
Cider House &
Estate Winery
8169 Kennedy Line
(East of Hwy 79)
MAP G p105: 82 519-296-5558
January–May 24 Weekend
HOURS: SAT 9 am–5 pm
SUN 1 pm–5 pm
May 24 Weekend–December
HOURS: MON–FRI 10 am–5 pm
SAT 9 am–5 pm
SUN 1 pm–5 pm
twinpinesorchards.com
Family Owned and Operated
Award-Winning Hard Ciders
Beautiful Gift Shop
Fresh Fruits & Vegetables
Beautiful Spring Blossoms
Autumn Harvest Season
Enjoy Complimentary Samples!
localflavour.ca 169
Stratford
Craft Distillery
& Retail Store
45 Cambria Street (at Dufferin St.)
MAP E p83: 83 519-305-5535
HOURS: TUES-WED 10:30am-4:30pm
THURS–FRI 10:30 am–6 pm
SAT 10:30 am–5 pm
SUN 11 am–3 pm
closed mondays
junction56.ca
Distillery Tours
Guided Samplings
Mini Bottles & Gift Packs
Ample Free Parking
Spirit Sampling Anytime!
Stainless Steel & Copper Stills
Tour the Production Process
170 localflavour.ca
Keeping It Local
JUNCTION 56
DISTILLERY
What’s in a name? Junction 56 pays
homage to Stratford’s early history
as a railway town. The distillery,
located in a former 100-year-old
lumber yard, has a set of tracks
running directly behind it, with
another track a block away. The
junction of those two major railway
lines was built in 1856. The city was
built up around it and trains still run
by the distillery every day.
The Scene
Junction 56 Distillery’s heritage building is a perfect location to sample
great spirits. The retail store features an ever-evolving selection of
products. The distillery offers public and private tours, tastings, and
special one-of-a-kind experiences (announced on social media).
Spirits Highlights
Junction 56 Distillery uses only 100% Ontario-grown grains to produce
small batch, superior spirits including whisky, vodka, gin, and moonshine.
The corn and wheat used come from owner Mike Heisz’s cousin’s farm, an
hour north of the distillery. The grains are milled on site to ensure quality
control, and modern batch distillation techniques result in award-winning
handcrafted products. Junction 56 products have zero artificial colours
or flavours. What you see is what you get. Recommendations include:
• Mint Smoothie Liqueur,
created with local partner
Rhéo Thompson Candies,
a spirit that captures the
luscious qualities of a
Mint Smoothie;
• Pink Gin, subtly sweet
yet tart with floral rose
petal notes;
• Canadian Whisky, four
balanced grains aged to
perfection in oak barrels.
CIDERIES & DISTILLERIES
Small Batch Canadian Whisky
Mix & Match Mini
Bottle Gift Sets
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
Leading the Pack
WOLFHEAD DISTILLERY
Inspired by the history of rumrunning in the local area, owners
Tom and Sue Manherz and Larry Girard turned that interest into
a premium craft distillery. A craftsman operation, Wolfhead
Distillery incorporates distinct limestone-treated water from the
Amherstburg Quarry and locally-grown grains, producing unique
flavours that push the boundaries of Canadian Spirits.
The Scene
Wolfhead Distillery is a hidden gem in Essex County. Surrounded by
barrels, you’ll be invited into a rustic and charming world-class restaurant,
featuring an innovative menu with locally-sourced ingredients infused
with Wolfhead spirits. Recommendations include the Apple Whisky Pulled
Pork Sandwich — pork shoulder basted with Premium Wolfhead Whisky
and infused with Wolfhead Whisky barbeque sauce. Or try the Drunken
Shrimp & Scallops — sautéed with garlic, select spices and tomatoes,
then flambéed in premium Wolfhead Vodka. An inviting retail store sells
Wolfhead products and a selection of apparel and unique gifts. Public tours
and tastings are available Saturdays, with group tours by reservation. For
a truly unique experience, Wolfhead is an excellent venue for your next
special event.
Good Things Come In Small Batches
Wolfhead Distillery features small batch, double barrel Premium Craft
Whisky, Vodka and more, creating distinct spirits you won’t find anywhere
else. Popular flavoured spirits include Coffee Whisky Liqueur, Grapefruit
Vodka and Banana
Caramel Vodka. A must
try is the Wolfhead
Whisky Caesar.
Wolfhead Premium
Spirits can be found
in select LCBO stores
in Ontario or at the
Distillery. Follow
Wolfhead on social media
for updates or sign up
online to be a member of
the Wolfpack! You’ll be
the first to know about
upcoming products and
events.
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
CIDERIES & DISTILLERIES
Amherstburg
Craft Distillery,
Retail Store &
Restaurant
7781 Howard Avenue (Hwy 9)
MAP H p111: 84 519-726-1111
Retail Store
HOURS: MON & TUES 9 am–4 pm
WED–SUN 11 am–8 pm
Distillery & Restaurant
HOURS: WED–SUN 11 am–8 pm
Closed Monday & Tuesday
Hours may change seasonally.
drinkwolfhead.com
Public Tours on Saturdays
Farm-to-Table Dining
Available for Private Parties
Destination Craft Distillery
Tours & Tastings Available
Open for Lunch & Dinner
localflavour.ca 171
Farmers’ Markets
London
The Heart of London
COVENT GARDEN
MARKET
Eat local in the heart of London! Covent Garden Market is located
downtown at the junction of King and Talbot Streets. A strong
attraction for locals and out-of-town guests alike, this is one of the
city’s most venerated cultural landmarks and the heart and soul of
the downtown area.
Traditions
Old and New
Gourmet, artisanal and
wholesome, farmfresh
quality can be
found daily. Ask Bob
Usher, the market’s
personable CEO and
a past President and
still long-standing
board member of the London Downtown Business Association, about
some of the city’s best selection of organic foods, award-winning meats
(Chris’ Country Cuts and Mark’s Fine Meats), ethnic foods (a long list!),
the largest assortment of cheese (thanks to Glenda Smith) in Southwest
Ontario, confectionery, chocolatiers, market-roasted coffees, and a wide
selection of seasonal fresh cut flowers. You’ll be amazed with the variety
of ethnic, gourmet and specialty foods you can purchase, which showcase
the multicultural diversity of our community.
Outdoor Farmers’ Market
An outdoor Farmers’ Market offers fresh, local food on the Market Square on
Thursdays (May–October) and Saturdays (May–December). Share the passion
for locally-grown
food direct from local
farmers, growers and
producers. The vendors
selling here “grow
it, raise it, bake it, or
make it!” For current
news, recipes and
seasonal information,
visit coventmarket.
com and sign up for the
weekly newsletter.
Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
FARMERS’ MARKETS
Farmers’ Market
130 King Street (at Talbot)
MAP B p16: 85 519-439-3921
HOURS: MON–FRI 8 am–7 pm
SATURDAY: 8 am–6 pm
SUNDAY: 11 am–4 pm
coventmarket.com
Underground Parking
Outdoor Farmers’ Market
In the Market Square
HOURS: THURSDAY 4 pm–7 pm
May to October
SATURDAY 8 am–1 pm
May to December
Winter Indoor Farmers’ Market
Upstairs on the Mezzanine
HOURS: SATURDAY 9 am–1 pm
February 1 – April 4
The Original Market Building &
Square, by Paul Peel, 1883
Covent Garden Market & Square
was rebuilt in 1999
localflavour.ca 173
BAKED GOODS
COFFEE, TEA,
• Cucina Italiana
CHOCOLATE
• International
The Farmers’
Bakery
& FROZEN DESSERT
Market hosts free cooking classes
• Sebastian’s
every Saturday in the Market
•
Kitchen
Better Blend
on the
Smoothie Bar
• Chocolate Factory
Mezzanine, from 11 am–noon, • Hasbeans February–March and
May–September. This is a unique • The opportunity Ice Cream Bowl to learn
a new BUTCHER, dish, featuring SEAFOOD • The Little Red Roaster
products fresh from the farmers’
& POULTRY
market. There is no Farmers’ Market in January.
• Chris’ Country Cuts
DRY GOODS & SPECIALITY
• Mark’s
Rain
Fine
or shine,
Meats
enjoy live music every Saturday,
• Olive-Me & Co.
10 • Seoul am–noon. Seafood Shoppe In the case of inclement • Snack ‘n Bake weather, the
music moves indoors, upstairs on the Mezzanine.
Thursdays, May–October, ORGANIC feature an / VEGAN Outdoor FOODS
Night Market CHEESE from 4 pm–7 pm. • Homeopathy The Farmers’ London Market
• Red Wolf
moves
• Smith
indoors,
Cheese Incupstairs on the
• Sacred
Mezzanine,
Earth Vegan
February
Market
1–April 4, Saturdays from 9 am–1 pm.
main level
Mark’s Fine Meats
Mona’s
Shawarma & Grill
FOOD
COURT
Pop
Up
Shop
Little Red
Roaster
Happy
Wear
The
Piping
Kettle
Soup
Co.
Rice Box
Hot Oven
Washrooms
Stairs to
Mezzanine
Cucina
Italiana
The Ice
Cream Bowl
Mercado
Burrito
Market
Lottery
Seoul
Seafood
Shoppe
Thai
Delight
Smith Cheese Inc.
Covent Garden Market also houses several
excellent restaurants, such as Olive R.
Twist’s, Waldo’s on King Bistro and Wine
Bar, and Tanakaya. Covent Garden Market
Executive Assistant & Events Co-ordinator Amy
Shackleton will tell you that arts and culture
are the focus of the market’s mezzanine,
where a number of local artists and cultural
organizations are located, and there’s even a
community kitchen, an art school and a theatre.
As in the days of old, market days are full
of enticing surprises, adding an element of
discovery to the consistent appeal and bounty
FOODS of OF Covent THE WORLD Garden Market. GIFTS & FLOWERS
• Cucina Italiana
• Glenda’s
• Hot Oven
• Kleiber’s Delicatessen
• Mercado Burrito
• Mona’s Shawarma & Grill
• New Delhi Deli
• Petit Paris
• Rice Box
• Thai Delight
• The Coop Rotisserie
• The Piping Kettle Soup Co.
• The Salad Bowl
PRODUCE
• Doris Family Produce
• Havaris Produce
Better
Blend
Smoothie
Bar
Sacred
Earth
Vegan
Market
Sebastian’s
Snack ‘n Bake
Chocolate
Factory
• Bloomers at the Market
• Collected Works
• Forget Me Not Flowers & More
• Happy Wear
• Pop Up Shop
• Tina’s Treasury
RESTAURANTS
• Olive R Twists
• Tanakaya
• Waldo’s Bistro on King
SERVICES
• Market Administration
• Market Lottery
• Mr. Kwik Fix
Tanakaya
Red
Wolf
Collected
Works
Homeopathy
London
Forget-Me-Not Flowers & More
Glenda’s
Havaris
Produce
Olive-Me
& Co.
Tina’s Treasury
CTV
Two
Hasbeans
Bloomers at
the Market
Havaris Produce
The Salad
Bowl
New Delhi
Deli
Doris
Family
Produce
Mark’s Fine Meats
Chris’ Country
Cuts
Kleiber’s
Deli
Olive R Twists
Waldo’s Bistro
on King
The Coop
Rotisserie
Petit
Paris
International
Bakery
Mr. Kwik
Fix
Market
Administration
UPSTAIRS: The Tea Haus
174 localflavour.ca
FARMERS’ MARKETS Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide
ARTS & INSTRUCTION COMMUNITY SERVICES COFFEE, TEA, SERVICES
WE ARE IN THE
HEART OF LONDON
Established in 1845, we are a 7 day a week Market located
services, a local farmers’ market twice weekly and an array
of cultural festivals and events!
MARKET HOURS
MON—FRI SAT SUN
WE HAVE FREE UNDERGROUND PARKING:
1/2 HOUR FREE MON — FRI • 2 HOURS FREE SAT & SUN
WITH VALIDATION • NO PURCHASE REQUIRED • DURING MARKET HOURS
130 KING STREET, LONDON | coventmarket.com
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Project Team
Bryan Lavery, Stacey McDonald,
Terry-Lynn “TL” Sim, Chris McDonell
Culinary Advisor & Writer
Bryan Lavery wrote many of the editorial
contributions and business profiles, helping shape
this guide in hands-on and consultative ways.
Copy Editor
Kym Wolfe
Publisher
Chris McDonell
Photography
Steve Grimes — grimesphoto.com
Alieska Robles — alieskarobles.com
Phong Tran — t5digital.com
Nick Lavery — laveryculinarygroup.ca
Steven Reaume — thedetroitilove.com
Thanks and credits to many of the businesses involved
for providing additional images for this guide.
Printer
Mi5 Print & Digital
Appreciation
Thanks for the assistance and support from the
following people and organizations: Jen Moore, Jim
Hudson, Ana Baxter and June Nussey from SWOTC;
Ann Cormier from Eatdrink; Bob Usher and Amy
Shackleton from Covent Garden Market; Chris Pinelli
from Lexus of London; Zul Karmali from Hotel Metro;
Todd Jackson from Mi5 Print & Digital; Sue Gordon and
Isaac McDonell-Gordon.
Copyright © 2019 Eatdrink Inc. and the businesses
listed. All rights reserved.
Reproduction or duplication of any material published
in Local Flavour: Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide is
strictly prohibited without the written permission of
the Publisher. The views or opinions expressed in the
information, content and/or advertisements published
in Local Flavour are solely those of the author(s) and
do not necessarily represent those of the Publisher,
SWOTC, or the Province of Ontario, who assume
no liability whatsoever for damages or loss arising
from errors, changes or omissions. All information
contained in this publication is believed to be accurate
at the time of printing, but is subject to change.
Printed in Canada.
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BRING YOUR APPETITE TO THE
HEART OF LONDON
MARKET HOURS
MON—FRI SAT SUN
WE HAVE FREE UNDERGROUND PARKING:
1/2 HOUR FREE MON — FRI • 2 HOURS FREE SAT & SUN
WITH VALIDATION • NO PURCHASE REQUIRED • DURING MARKET HOURS
130 KING STREET, LONDON | coventmarket.com
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