Local Flavour Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide Volume 9

CHATHAM-KENT • ELGIN • HURON • LONDON • MIDDLESEX

OXFORD • SARNIA-LAMBTON • WINDSOR-ESSEX-PELEE ISLAND

Local Flavour

SOUTHWEST ONTARIO

CULINARY GUIDE

Volume 9

Restaurants • Specialty Shops & Services • Farmers’ Markets

Craft Beer • Local Wine • Craft Distilleries

eatdrink

The LOCAL Food & Drink Magazine

localflavour.ca

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CHATHAM-KENT • ELGIN • HURON • LONDON • MIDDLESEX

OXFORD • SARNIA-LAMBTON • WINDSOR-ESSEX-PELEE ISLAND

Local Flavour

SOUTHWEST ONTARIO

CULINARY GUIDE

Restaurants • Specialty Shops & Services • Farmers’ Markets

Craft Beer • Local Wine • Craft Distilleries

Volume 9

localflavour.ca

Another quality guide from the publishers of

eatdrink


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 Ontario’s Southwest

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

= map location

4 Southwest Ontario Is Cooking with Local Flavour!

14 map a: southwest ontario

LONDON

20 map b: city of london

Restaurants

22 David’s Bistro 1

24 Abruzzi Ristorante 2

26 The River Room / Rhino Lounge 3

28 Craft Farmacy 4

30 The Church Key Bistro-Pub 5

32 Garlic’s of London 6

34 Blackfriars Bistro & Catering 7

36 Grace 8

38 Pizzeria Madre 9

40 Taverna 13thirtyone 10

42 Budapest Restaurant 11

44 The Chef’s Table 12

46 Willie’s Café 13

50 Pasto’s Grill 14

51 Katana Kafé & Grill 15

52 Fellini Koolini’s / The Runt Club 16

53 Joe Kool’s 17

54 Marienbad / Chaucer’s Pub 18

55 T.G.’s Addis Ababa Restaurant 19

56 The Tea Lounge 20

Specialty Shops & Services

58 The Pristine Olive Tasting Bar 21

60 Marshall’s Pasta 22

62 Blackfriars Pantry/Larder/Bakery 23

64 Grace Bodega 24

66 Hey, Cupcake! 25

67 Jill’s Table 26

#

MIDDLESEX COUNTY

69 map c: middlesex county

72 The Clock Tower 27

74 Fat Olive 28

OXFORD COUNTY

77 map d: oxford county

80 SixThirtyNine 29

82 KALOS 30

84 Early Bird Coffee 31 32

HURON COUNTY

87 map e: huron county

88 The Muse at Hessenland 33

90 Eddington’s of Exeter 34

SARNIA-LAMBTON

94 map f: lambton county

96 F.I.N.E. A Restaurant 35

WINDSOR-ESSEX-

PELEE ISLAND

99 map g: essex county

CHATHAM-KENT

103 map h: kent county

106 Mamma Maria’s Ristorante 36

ELGIN COUNTY

109 map i: elgin county

112 The Windjammer Inn 37

LOCAL CRAFT BEER

120 Toboggan Brewing Co. 38

122 Anderson Craft Ales 39

124 Railway City Brewing Co. 40

126 Upper Thames Brewing Co.

& Brickhouse Brewpub 41 42

128 Storm Stayed Brewing Co. 43

130 Bayside Brewing Co.

& Bayside Brewpub 44

132 London Brewing 45

134 Shakespeare Brewing Co. 46

135 The Blue Elephant Craft Brew House 47

LOCAL WINE

140 Alton Farms Estate Winery 48

142 Oxley Estate Winery 49

144 Sprucewood Shores Estate

Winery 50

146 Pelee Island Winery 51 52

148 Schatz Winery 53

CIDERIES & DISTILLERIES

152 Twin Pines Orchards

& Cider House 54

155 Wolfhead Distillery 55

FARMERS’ MARKETS

157 Covent Garden Market 56

160 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Amenities Legend

— Licenced

— Wheelchair Accessible

— Seasonal Patio

— Take-Out Available

— Hands-On Experiences

Available

— Accommodations

Available

Photo courtesy of SixThirtyNine

INTRODUCTION

Southwest Ontario

is Cooking with

Local Flavour!

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.

4 INTRODUCTION Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide

What a tumultuous time we have been going through for the

past two years. As this publication goes to print, we are excited

about the reopening of the society

we treasure. It appears that the

worst is now behind us. Yet it also

seems that we are walking back

into something new, something

diffferent. The good news is that we

can re-enter a world where travel,

dining out, and socializing are safe

to embrace with gusto. Maybe we

didn’t take this for granted before,

but we certainly better understand

now the tremendous value of even

the most casual “culinary” activities

— like meeting a friend for a coffee and pastry, or joining

colleagues after work for a beer or a glass of wine.

Far more painful was the devastating loss of lives,

compounded by our inability to properly mourn friends

and loved ones, due to COVID-19 and otherwise. Some

Main image:

Viewpoint Estate Winery

Insets:

Abruzzi Ristorante

The Windjammer Inn

5

usinesses faced one too many “pivots” and had to close. That

is so disappointing. But we also lost so many celebrations and

joyful occasions. Birthdays, weddings,

anniversaries, graduations ... There is

a long list of events that did not get the

treatment they deserved. There is no

way to make up for that, but we can

try! Moving forward, let’s savour every

chance we have to enjoy each other

and all that this good earth provides for

us. And this guide profiles so many of

the people that can help you do that.

Creativity & Innovation

It is not overstating things to say that

every page that follows is a tribute to the

human spirit. Each profile is a testament to the indomitable

force of creativity that motivates some extraordinary people

to “keep on keeping on” when the world has given them

a bag of lemons. They’ve gone so far beyond making

lemonade — although some of them would be glad to

do that for you — that it isn’t funny. It’s remarkable. They

figured out ways to continue to do the work that they

love, to guide their business through a global pandemic

with ever-changing mandates and lockdowns, while

simultaneously dealing with deep concerns for their staff

and customers. The survival of their business depended

upon their ability to maintain a standard of quality that

customers would appreciate, and service that would bring

people back. And they succeeded.

The unexpected benefit for those

of us who love good food and drink is

the tremendous challenges sparked

so much innovation and genius. It is

true that “necessity is the mother of

invention,” and a number of clever

new businesses have been birthed.

You will find some of that inspiration

in these pages.

You’ll also find that even the most

venerable stalwarts who have been

paragons of excellence and consistency

for so many years have made changes

to their business. Most of those changes will be part of “the new

normal” that we are moving into. You will like most of them! You can

also expect to pay a little more. But these folks understand value, and

they know how to deliver it in ways that will leave you delighted.

TG’s Addis Ababa Restaurant

David’s Bistro

Willie’s Café

6 localflavour.ca INTRODUCTION Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide

Forest City

Culinary Experiences

&

Gastronomic Tasting

Experiences

Indulge Your Senses with Culinary Expert Hosts & Storytellers

Immerse Yourself in Local Culture as you Taste, Sip, Shop & Stroll

Downtown London • Old East Village • Blackfriars/Petersville • Wortley Village

Restos, Distilleries, Breweries, Gourmet Food Shops & Indie Cafés

Bring Your

Camera, Curiosity &

Inner Gastronome!

forestcityculinaryexperiences.ca

Looking to book one of our experiences or

inquire about a team-building event? Reach

out to us and we’ll get right back to you.

519-280-7565

ethicalgourmet@yahoo.com

Meal Support for Busy Lives

Prepared Meals • Breakfast • Sweets

Snacks • Small Event Catering

We are here to help!

• Senior Support

• New Baby

• Kitchen Reno

• Surgery or Sickness

• OR you just want a home cooked meal

Let us feed you!

Order online for

pick-up or delivery (London)

Quick & Nutricious Breakfast Specialists

884 Adelaide St N @ Grosvenor

(next to Pristine Olive)

Open Monday 12–4 & Tuesday–Friday 10–5

We keep Google updated if there are any changes

mamasim.ca

519-777-8259

Authentic Local Flavours

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

inspiring independent businesses and

producers of hand-crafted, smallbatch,

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 sociallyconscious

professionals in agricultural and artisanal

production bring the latest in epicurean innovation to the

table. Today’s modern restaurants are about feasting,

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, farmto-table

restaurants, sipping wine at a vineyard, quaffing

a cold one in a craft brewery or visiting

a hands-on agri-tourism attraction —

all beautifully connected by wellmaintained

country roads — you will

find Southwest Ontario is a hotbed

of talent. The range and choices in

culinary styles reflect our rich cultural

diversity and fulfill our deep 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 ethicallysourced

coffee beans. Tea drinkers are equally well served by the

The River Room

The Church Key Bistro-Pub

The Chef’s Table

Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide

INTRODUCTION

localflavour.ca 9

outstanding coffeehouses, tea lounges, restaurants and culinary

retailers all around the region.

Uncork a new winemaking world

by visiting award-winning 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, not only

to the products they are offering, but to the brewers

themselves. Our forward-thinking craft brewers are

creating meaningful and lasting on-site experiences.

Culinary Experiences

Looking for a good way to plan your next culinary

adventure? Check out the excellent suggestions

offered by the enthusiastic tourism

professionals at Ontario’s Southwest

(OntariosSouthwest.com). Their list

of Signature Experiences — fully

vetted offers from a wide variety

of businesses — will introduce

you to a strong community of

innovators providing what is known

as “experiential tourism,” the

burgeoning movement in which

locals and visitors enjoy meaningful

and personal experiences through

interactive and authentic encounters.

The development of new culinary tourism experiences is also

enhancing a sustainable food culture. Go behind the scenes and

Anderson Craft Ales

Sixthirtynine

Schatz Winery


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 selfguided

tour along one of the many

award-winning culinary trails.

Interactive experiences engage

participants by involving artisans,

cheesemakers, chocolatiers,

craft brewers, winemakers,

craft distillers, coffee roasters,

Find your next culinary adventure tea sommeliers, chefs, farmers,

at OntariosSouthwest.com

foragers, fishers and more.

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

“Local Flavour” in Southwest Ontario!

WE ALL DESERVE

A STAYCATION

Book a minimum

2-night stay at a

participating London

hotel and get a $100

VISA card

for more information &

to book your stay, visit:

londontourism.ca/stay

*Terms and conditions apply.

While supplies last.


INTRODUCTION

localflavour.ca 11

Explore a region that’s shaped by nature where a quiet paddle, morning

hike or a stroll down a Great Lake point are only a few of the ways to

enjoy the great outdoors and the abundace of natural beauty

Ontario’s Southwest has to offer. Come discover or rediscover our

friendly communications and a thriviging arts and culinary scene.

Plan your adventure at OntariosSouthwest.com

We We pride pride ourselves ourselves in in the the unique, unique, authentic, authentic, and and memorable memorable

experiences experiences that that you you won't won't find find elsewhere. elsewhere. To To help help you you find find the the most most unique, unique,

authentic, authentic, and and memorable memorable experiences, experiences, we’ve we’ve recognized recognized the the following following as as

Ontario’s Ontario’s Southwest Southwest Signature Signature Experiences! Experiences!

Frolic Frolic with with majestic majestic Ojibwe Ojibwe Spirit Spirit Horses Horses and and discover discover more more about about their their connectiotion

to to the the Aboriginal Aboriginal culture culture and and history history Awaken Awaken Your Your Spirit: Spirit: A Spirit A Spirit Horse Horse

connec-

Encounter Encounter at at TJ TJ Stables Stables in in Chatham. Chatham. Gather Gather for for an an amazing amazing picnic picnic experience experience

in in a berry a berry field field at at Berrylicious Berrylicious Fruit Fruit Farm Farm with with Picnics Picnics in in the the Patch Patch in in

Burgessville. Burgessville. Get Get a Taste a Taste of of Farm Farm Life Life at at Udderly Udderly Ridiculous Ridiculous in in Bright, Bright, do do

agility agility training training with with goats goats and and spend spend quality quality time time in in the the field field with with an an alpaca alpaca

guide. guide. With With paddles paddles in in hand, hand, learn learn advanced advanced paddling paddling including including whitewater whitewater

from from Grand Grand Experiences Experiences in in a Nith a Nith Whitewater Whitewater Experiential Experiential

Learning Learning Adventure. Adventure.

Harvest Harvest your your own own fruites fruites & vegetables & vegetables and and create create a beautiful a beautiful brunch brunch with with a a

registered registered dietitian dietitian and and farmer farmer at at the the Harvest Harvest Brunch Brunch at at Thames Thames River River

Melons Melons in in Innerkip. Innerkip. Walk Walk a tulip a tulip field, field, learn learn about about the the flowers flowers in in a scavanger a scavanger

hunt hunt style style activity activity before before cutting cutting tulip tulip blooms blooms for for pressing pressing in in the the Beyond Beyond the the

Vase Vase Tulip Tulip Experience Experience at at Hat Hat Trick Trick Farms Farms in in Blenheim. Blenheim.

Walk Walk a beautiful a beautiful garden garden and and learn learn flower flower tips tips & tricks & tricks as as you you take take part part in in

Cut-Your-Own Cut-Your-Own Flower Flower Experience Experience

at at Makkink’s Makkink’s Flower Flower Farms Farms in in

Tillsonburg. Tillsonburg. Gain Gain an an appreciation appreciation of of the the

Carolinian Carolinian forest forest before before heading heading into into the the

workshop workshop to to create create your your live-edge live-edge

charcuterie charcuterie board board at at From From Tree Tree to to Table Table

by by Ottercreek Ottercreek Wookworks Wookworks in in Tillsonburg. Tillsonburg.

Book Book an an unforgettable unforgettable experience experience

at at OntariosSouthwest.com

Map A — SOUTHWEST ONTARIO

W

N

S

E

MICHIGAN

Port Huron

Detroit

Sarnia-Lambton

Windsor

LAKE ST CLAIR

Windsor-Essex-

Pelee Island

3

Chatham-Kent

LAKE ERIE


LAKE HURON

Huron

Middlesex

Stratford

Shakespeare

Waterloo

Kitchener

London

Oxford

Cambridge

Elgin

Simcoe


INTRODUCTION

localflavour.ca 15

Your

tastebuds

will thank

you.

Come for the food, stay for

the epic experience.

to learn more visit:

londontourism.ca

London

Exceptional restaurants, talented home-grown and

internationally-trained chefs, and excellent gourmet

shops make London a “must-visit” destination for

local flavour. There are intimate cafés, secluded

patios, chic and spacious digs, and more. The

downtown core has the heaviest concentration of

outstanding restaurants and culinary retailers, but

neighbourhoods such as the Old East Village have

also become hubs of innovation with a focus on

local sustainability and authenticity.

London

Restaurants

Amenities Legend

— Licenced

— Wheelchair Accessible

— Seasonal Patio

— Take-Out Available

— Hands-On Experiences

Available

— Accommodations

Available

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.

25

OXFORD ST.

C.P.R.

RICHMOND ST.

BOLER RD.

SANITORIUM RD.

THAMES RIVER

BYRON BASELINE

HYDE PARK RD.

RIVERSIDE DRIVE

COLONEL TALBOT RD.

WONDERLAND RD.

C.N.R.

SPRINGBANK DR.

4

Blackfriars Bridge is

closed to vehicles.

Access Blackfriars Bistro

off Wharncliffe Rd.

43

WHARNCLIFFE RD. S.

ELMWOOD AVE.

EMERY ST.

BASELINE RD.

BLACKFRIARS ST.

STANLEY

WORTLEY

17

7

38

23 16

5

18 6

3

CARLING

12 1 24 8

56

26 2

RIDOUT ST.

TALBOT ST.

BELGRAVE

RICHMOND ST.

GR

HWY. 4

COUNTY RD. 2 & HWY.4 WEST

EXETER ROAD

SOUTHDALE RD.

COUNTY RD. 2

HWY. 402

EXIT 177

14

EXIT 183

EXI

20 localflavour.ca

FANSHAWE PARK RD. E.

WINDERMERE RD.

THAMES RIVER

FANSHAWE LAKE

HURON ST.

HURON ST.

WELLINGTON ST.

H

20

9

WATERLOO ST.

SOUTH

COLBORNE ST.

ST.

MAITLAND ST.

HORTON ST.

SIMCOE ST.

WILLIAM ST.

ADELAIDE ST.

DUFFERIN AVE.

KING ST.

YORK ST.

ADELAIDE ST.

21

PICCADILLY ST.

22

RECTORY ST.

OXFORD ST.

CENTRAL AVE.

Western

Fairgrounds

FLORENCE ST.

EGERTON ST.

QUEBEC ST.

QUEENS AVE. 39

11 13 DUNDAS ST. 45

19

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.

15

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 21

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 combined with classic French-inspired

cooking in a charming heritage building setting

makes for a memorable dining experience.

22

LONDON

L–R: Sous Chef Rick Hunt

Line Cook Andrew Woolcox-Howe

David Chapman

Chef Elvis Drennan

Natalie Chapman

The Scene

David’s Bistro was opened in 1998

by David Chapman — already

an esteemed London chef — and

quickly became a venerated

downtown London culinary anchor.

The classic French bistro motif,

with a small and elegant bar

and vibrant red walls, perfectly

matches the traditional approach

to service and attention to detail

managed by Natalie Chapman.

Menu Highlights

Chef Elvis Drennan has helmed the

Daily Prix Fixe Specials

kitchen alongside Sous Chef Rick

Hunt and a talented kitchen staff

for many years now. They present

perfectly executed classic regional

French-inspired specialties. The

emphasis is on authentic country

cuisine with high quality ingredients,

demonstrating their philosophy that

simplicity, seasonality and purity are

the hallmarks of good cooking .

David’s recipe for success — good

food, good wine and good company!

— is time-tested but always evolving.

The Bar

Chalkboard prix-fixe menu options

change daily, in tune with the

seasons and the availability of

special items. The interesting wine

list also varies, with a range of

carefully selected consignment

wines listed on a separate

blackboard, augmenting regular

favourites.

Classic bistro fare (the menu

changes weekly) can also be

pre-ordered for Sunday pickup and

delivery to heat and serve at home.


White Chocolate Bavarois

with Strawberry Rhubarb Jelly,

Coated In Dark Chocolate

LONDON

Classic Bistro

432 Richmond Street (at Carling)

MAP B p20: 1 519-667-0535

davidsbistro.ca

Classic French Bistro Fare

Daily Prix Fixe Choices

Excellent Wine List, Available

by Glass or Bottle

Pre-order Heat-and-Serve

Meals for Sunday Pickup

& Delivery (Menu Changes

Weekly)

Lake Trout with Double Smoked

Bacon, Fiddleheads & Peas

Smoked Duck & Cantaloupe

Salad with Tarragon

Arctic Char with Butternut Squash

Hash, Romesco Sauce & Prosciutto

localflavour.ca 23

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.

24

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


• Spiced Carrot Sponge Cake with

buttercream, walnut praline, candied

carrot & toasted coconut sorbetto.

LONDON

The Bar

LONDON

Italian-inspired

Farm-to-Table

119 King Street (at Talbot)

MAP B p20: 2 519-675-9995

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

Spiced Carrot Sponge Cake

localflavour.ca 25

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. The exceptional menu

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.

26

LONDON

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. An attractive

curved bar at the entrance

Chef Jeff Fortner

Menu Highlights

Chef Jeff Fortner and his team deliver wellexecuted

features, including the signature

East Coast Lobster Roll on a topsider bun.

Menu choices include a variety of sharing

plates, entrée-sized salads, Napoli-style

pizza, and mains from a Vegan Cannelloni

to a Braised Ontario Lamb Shank.

Über Pastry Chef Michele Lenhardt

brings dessert offerings at both locations to

a new level. Try the River Room’s signature

Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée and the popular

Cronuts at the Rhino Lounge.


and photos pay homage to

New York City.

Pastry Chef

Michele Lenhardt

Yes, after a two-year hiatus, Rhino Lounge has reopened to great

excitement for their greatly missed coffee, espresso, cappuccino and

lattes, as well as vegan takes on such classics as Mac ’n’ Cheese,

Sausage Rolls, Cheesecake and Dutchies.

The River Room’s prix fixe Brunch

Menu features a dozen dishes, including

a classic Eggs Benedict with toasted

English muffin, hollandaise sauce, roasted

potatoes, and choice of traditional peameal

bacon or in-house smoked salmon.

At Rhino Lounge, by reservation only:

Daily 12pm Gruyere Soufflé

Soufflé by Reservation

Daily 2:30pm Chocolate Soufflé with

Chocolate Crème Anglaise

LONDON

Contemporary

Casual Fine Dining

& Café

421 Ridout Street North

(within Museum London)

MAP B p20: 3 519-850-2287

theriverroom.ca

THE RIVER ROOM

Daily Specials

Prix Fixe Brunch Menu

Meeting Room Amenities

Available for Private Dining

THE RHINO LOUNGE

519-850-5111

Available for Private Events

Meeting Room Amenities

Patrick’s Beans Coffee

Cronuts & Donuts

Smoked Salmon & Potato Latkes

Lemon Tart with Raspberry Purée

Fresh Pastries, Cronuts & Donuts

localflavour.ca 27

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.”

28

LONDON

Stylish Interior with Fireplace

Executive Chef

Andrew Wolwowicz

with puffball mushroom


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 a talented

team of kitchen professionals.

Dishes are progressive and rustic in style,

featuring high-quality ingredients crafted from

local, region-specific and specialty products,

and executed with aptitude, innovation and

attention to detail. Recommendations

Confit of Duck

with Pork Belly

Roasted Half Chicken

include: Roasted Bone Marrow with oxtail

marmalade; Duck Poutine with house-cut

fries, duck demi, shredded duck confit, local

cheese curds and scallions; 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.

Jazey-Spoelstra’s craft cocktail list is

always seasonal and on point.

LONDON

Craft Beer &

Oyster Bar

449 Wharncliffe Road S

(N of Baseline)

MAP B p20: 4 519-914-2699

@craftfarmacy

London’s Premier Oyster Bar

Extensive Craft Beer

Selection

Craft Cocktails

Fireplace & Welcoming

Ambience

Ample Free Parking

Private Rooms Available

Seafood Tower & Oysters

Blackboard Menu Updated Daily

localflavour.ca 29

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.”

30

LONDON

Bistro-Pub

476 Richmond Street

(N of Queens)

MAP B p20: 5 519-936-0960

thechurchkey.ca

The Bar


The Scene

Warm and comfortable, with a

pleasing combination of brick,

stone and wood, The Church

Key is an extensively renovated

pub in a Richmond Row heritage

building across from The Grand

Theatre. There are seats at the

bar or assorted tables suitable for

a couple or a crowd. An intimate

outdoor courtyard flanks the

south side of the building.

Menu Highlights

Taste something wonderfully

different! 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, duck breast bacon, and vegetables.

Or start with Salmon Wrapped Scallops — sea scallops wrapped in housesmoked

salmon, drizzled with grapefruit and rice wine syrup and togarashi

aioli — or a classic Warm Duck Confit Salad.

Entrée favourites include the famous Church Key Burger, with inhouse-ground

beef (& bacon) burger, caramelized onions, Stilton cheese,

arugula and tomato jam; traditional Fish & Chips served with creamy

tartar sauce and savoy coleslaw; and Lamb Curry — lamb braised in mild

ginger curry sauce on

seasoned rice with

cucumber raita and

fresh cilantro.

The Game of the

Week is a perennially

popular feature, as

Chef creates a unique

dish that showcases

a different variety of

game meat every week.

LONDON

Across from The Grand

Theatre

Friendly Courtyard Patio

Vegetarian Options

Game Meat of the Week

Specials

Food Served Late!

Heritage Building Charm

Across from the Grand Theatre

Inviting Courtyard Patio

localflavour.ca 31

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.

32

LONDON

Farm-to-Table Dining

481 Richmond Street

(S of Dufferin)

MAP B p20: 6 519-432-4092

garlicsoflondon.com

The Scene

For over 25 years, Garlic’s of London has been a popular dining destination in

the heart of downtown London. The unique artistic dining room exhibits deeply

rooted connections to the city. Century-old exposed brick walls display local

artist Steve Tracy’s paintings

and posters from The Grand

Theatre. A hand-crafted

metal garlic sculpture holds

the menu, which changes

monthly. A newly renovated

bar presents a modern-day

Owner Edin “Edo” Pehilj


twist to the charming and

distinct space. The warm

ambiance, distinguished wine

list, and a carefully crafted, seasonally-inspired menu reflects this restaurant’s

determination to provide guests with an exceptional experience. Garlic’s team

of professional staff always welcomes you with gracious service, pleased to

host leisurely meetings, special celebrations,

or intimate gatherings.

Menu Highlights

Garlic’s of London’s seasonally inspired

menus reflect a rustic yet modern flair.

The progressive culinary team is driven

by creativity, authenticity and excitement,

constantly evolving and adapting. Involved

early on in the farm-to-table movement,

Garlic’s of London sources high quality

ingredients from Canadian farmers and has

a strong relationship with local suppliers,

including Steelhead Food, Clear Creek

Farms and Munro Honey, and takes pride in partnerships with The Grand

Theatre, Fire Roasted Coffee, London Brewing Co-op, Bench Brewing

and many others.

Head Chef Kiefer Wheeler

creates memorable dishes that are

sophisticated and intriguing, while

showcasing ingenuity with ingredients

and his zeal for enticing flavours.

He is an encouraging mentor and

has transferred his passion to each

member of the culinary team.


& Sous-Chef Jason Elgersma


A skillfully curated wine list, creative

cocktail selection and local craft beers

will complement your meal to remember.

LONDON

Beside The Grand Theatre

Upscale Rustic Cuisine

Seasonal Ingredients

Naturally-Raised Meats

Menu Changes Monthly

Seasonal Cocktails

Garlic’s Artisan Board

AAA Beef Tenderloin

localflavour.ca 33

An Authentic Farmto-Table

Experience

BLACKFRIARS BISTRO & CATERING

The cuisine at Blackfriars Bistro combines precise technique

and skill with quality, hand-selected ingredients. The restaurant

supports and depends on indie farmers, sustainable fisheries, local

artisans and craftspeople for seasonally changing offerings. Owner

Emanuela Frongia and chef Bryan Lavery ensure that the cooking

and hospitality celebrates the farm-to-table experience with food,

drink, and authentic flavours grown in southwestern Ontario.

34

LONDON

Farm-to-Table

Bistro & Caterer

46 Blackfriars St. (Off Wharncliffe)

MAP B p20: 7 519-667-4930

blackfriarsbistro.com

Owner Emanuela Frongia


The Scene

This heritage building neighborhood

bistro is central to one of London’s

oldest communities, just west of

London’s downtown core, drawing

guests from all over the city and

beyond. The bistro’s namesake,

Blackfriars Bridge (two blocks

east), is a stunning, recently

refurbished 19th-century wrought

iron marvel. In addition to a bright

yet intimate dining room, there is a

new patio at the side of the building

for alfresco dining.

Menu Highlights

From the beginning, Blackfriars staff

has been committed to doing things

with generosity, innovation, and

attention to detail. From Lavery’s first 4-star review in 1996, “Food Gets Star

Billing at New Blackfriars,” the chefs continue to be consistently celebrated

for the seasonality and integrity of the cuisine and their innovative approach

to the culinary arts. This is an authentic farm-to-table experience.

The Blackfriars kitchen is happy to accommodate any allergy or dietary

requirement you or your guests may have. Please advise them if you or any

of your guests have any allergies or dietary requirements and they will do

their utmost to ensure that an “accommodated” culinary experience is just

as amazing as everyone else’s.

Catering Experts

Blackfriars is also renowned for its

catering operations. In fact, some

of Blackfriars’ biggest fans know

the business as one of London’s

premier caterers more than they

know the restaurant. All the food

is prepared with fresh, quality

ingredients in-house by a staff of

experienced chefs. Blackfriars will

always customize menus to reflect

your special requirements. Tell them

The Best of Every Season!

your favourite flavours or leave the

menu design to the experts!

LONDON

Locally-Sourced Seasonal

Menus

Intimate Relaxed Service

Seasonal Patio

Full Service Catering

Craft Cocktails

Local Craft Beer Selection

Ample Parking

Bistro & Catering

Premier Catering Available

Fresh Baking Daily

Comfortable Seasonal Patio

localflavour.ca 35

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.

36

LONDON

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

Spring a

Leek Salad

freshest local ingredients.

Grace has an artfully crafted rotating 5-course prix fixe dinner menu.

They also offer an à la carte menu. The prix fixe menu changes often

as local ingredients come into season. Most dietary restrictions can be

accommodated with advanced notice. Sommelier-selected wine pairings

are available upon request.

Grace also offers one of London’s most exciting and innovative beverage

programs. Their extensive (70+ bottles and growing) wine list consists

mostly of terroir-driven organic

or biodynamic Old World

wines, highlighting lesser

known grapes, regions, and

artisanal producers not found

in the LCBO. There is always

something new and exciting to

sip on — Grace’s by-the-glass

wine list changes weekly — that

you won’t find elsewhere in

town. Grace also has a great

Co-owner & Executive

Chef Angie Murphy


selection of Ontario craft beer

and cider, and seasonal housecrafted

cocktails.

LONDON

Contemporary

Canadian

215 Dundas Street (at Clarence)

MAP B p20: 8 226-667-4822

gracelondon.ca

Farm-to-Table Menus

Prix Fixe & à la Carte Options

Ever-changing Wine List

Ontario Craft Beers & Ciders

House-Crafted Cocktails

Private Room Available

Close to London’s Premier

Entertainment Venues

Plenty of Nearby Parking

Extensive Innovative Wine List

Sunday Brunch

Pop Tart Rhubarb Lemongrass

with Chili GInger Crisp

localflavour.ca 37

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.

38

LONDON

Farm-to-Table

Italian Pizzeria

111 Wellington Street

(between Hill & South Streets)

MAP B p20: 9 519-432-4333

pizzeriamadre.com

Naturally-Leavened

Sourdough Pizza Crust

Rotating Local Craft Beer

Selection

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.

PIZZERIA

Menu Highlights

Enjoy an appealing selection of

authentic stone-fired pizzas and

small plates for sharing. Curated

Italian wines are available by the

bottle or glass, or choose a local

craft beer or classic cocktail.

Menus are spiked with fresh

seasonal ingredients and are

Patata Pizza


ever-changing, often with a new daily

feature added as a bonus.

The “Pizze” Menu offers amazing

flavour combinations that work

beautifully, 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.

Don’t forget to leave room for

dessert — another reason to experience

the kitchen’s diverse strengths.

For dine in or take-out, this is more

than just another pizza joint!

LONDON

Sourdough Garlic Bread

Changing Housemade Desserts

Malagutti Fired Pizza Oven

localflavour.ca 39

A New Taste

in Hyde Park!

TAVERNA 13THIRTYONE

Co-owners Rob D’Amico and Chef Dave Lamers, of

renowned Abruzzi in Downtown London, opened

this contemporary upscale neighbourhood tavern

in 2020. An internationally-inspired menu offers

something for everyone, perfect for families, a

business lunch, or a great night out with friends.

40

LONDON

The Scene

Taverna 13thirtyone was designed to

accommodate the vision of experienced

restaurateurs, to create 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 let in plenty of natural light.

Comfortable seating is arranged for

larger groups and intimate dinners.

There is a private room for parties

or business meetings and a large

seasonal patio.

Menu Highlights

Chef David Lamers and Chef Eric

Robinson lead the kitchen team, with a Feast ON-certified menu that

celebrates local and seasonal ingredients inspired by international

flavours. Charcuterie 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.

An excellent Sunday Brunch is made even better with half-price Brunch

Cocktail refills. Speaking of cocktails, enjoy Happy Hour specials from

2–5pm seven days a week.

Menu recommendations include:

• Oysters Rockefeller with creamed

spinach, bacon, pecorino and bread

crumbs; or Oysters on the Half Shell

with a horseradish mignonette and

lemon;

• The Taverna Burger with two angus

beef patties, cheddar, bacon, greens,

red onion, pickles and 1331 sauce;

• Mushroom Ravioli with prosciutto

crumble, roasted mushroom cream,

fried Shogun maitake mushrooms

and chives;

• Angus Striploin with Yukon gold

mashed potatoes, French green

Angus Striploin


Co-Owners Chef David

Lamers & Rob D’Amico

beans, caramelized pearl onions,

button mushrooms and red wine jus.

LONDON

Contemporary

International

Farm-to-Table

1331 Hyde Park Road

(S of South Carriage Rd.)

MAP B p20: 10 519-473-1331

taverna1331.ca

Beer & Wine On Tap


Menus Change Seasonally

Seasonal Patio

Sunday Brunch

Daily Happy Hour Specials

Ample Free Parking

Happy Hour Specials at the Bar

The Taverna Burger

Mushroom Ravioli

localflavour.ca 41

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.

42

LONDON

Authentic

Hungarian Dining

348 Dundas Street (at Waterloo)

MAP B p20: 11 519-439-3431

budapestrestaurant.com

Banquet Room Available

Seasonal Patio

Take-away & Catering

Available

Owners Anita Tasonyi

and Eduard Nagy


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. Deceptively

spacious inside, the restaurant can

comfortably accommodate 100 guests.

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

Superior House Wines

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;

• Roasted Duck Leg with braised red

cabbage, sauerkraut and parsley potatos.

LONDON

Weiner Schnitzel

Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Bohemian Decor & Gypsy Ambiance

localflavour.ca 43

A Taste of

Student Success

in Downtown

London

THE CHEF’S TABLE

AT FANSHAWE COLLEGE

The Chef’s Table offers locally-sourced food and delicious

international flavours prepared and served by students of

Fanshawe’s School of Tourism, Hospitality & Culinary Arts.

Every meal and product you order is a learning experience

that delivers an outstanding guest experience and service.

44

LONDON

Lunch Café

& Catering

130 Dundas Street (E of Talbot))

MAP B p20: 12 519-452-4433

thechefstablefanshawe.ca

The Scene

Centrally located in the hub of

downtown London’s vibrant

core, Fanshawe College has

renovated a treasured heritage

building to accommodate their

School of Tourism, Hospitality

and Culinary Arts. At ground

level, The Chef’s Table is the

public face of the school, a bright,

clean and comfortable restaurant

with street views, high ceilings,

and a seasonal sidewalk patio.

An open kitchen offers a view of student chefs hard at work, but you

will also be greeted and served

by hospitality students. All are

trained and monitored by seasoned

professional instructors, ensuring

both quality guest experiences and

superb learning opportunities.

Menu Highlights

Fanshawe students and faculty

have created a Feast ON-certified

lunch menu using as much locallysourced

items as possible, from

the ingredients in your dish, to the

beer in your glass. Expect seasonal

changes in a range of options, including a Veg-Forward Dish of the Day —

a student-inspired vegetarian entrée — and assorted salads. Meat lovers

might choose the Flat-Iron Steak, with warm potato salad, quick pickled

veg and chimichurri. There’s

something for everyone.

The Chef’s Table also runs an

Online Store, offering freshly

butchered meats from their

Professional Butchery Techniques

students, baked goods from the

Baking and Pastry Arts students

and prepared entrées from the

Culinary Management students.

Orders open on Friday and close

Willie’s Homemade Beverages


on Wednesday, with pick-up on

Thursday afternoon.

LONDON

Open to the Public

Downtown Location

Locally-Sourced Lunch Menu

Online Grocery Store

Seasonal Patio

Reservations Appreciated

Local Wines, Beers & Cocktails

Fresh Baked Goods

Student-Run with Pro Training

localflavour.ca 45

Walk Over to Willie’s

In the Old East Village

WILLIE’S CAFÉ

Located in the heart of the Old East

Village, Willie’s Café is a short walk

from the Western Fair District, 100

Kellogg and Downtown — the perfect

stop for an outstanding lunch or to

start your day right with a healthy

breakfast and superior coffee.

46

LONDON

Lunch Café

& Catering

630 Dundas St (E of Adelaide))

MAP B p20: 13 519-433-9027

williescafeandcatering.com

Owner Ian Kennard


The Scene

Originally the Somerville Box Factory

and later the O-Pee-Chee Candy

Factory, an impressive turn-of-thecentury

yellow brick building has

been lovingly converted to a multi-use

space. Tall ceilings, original wood

floors, exposed brick work and large

windows create a bright, inviting

and relaxing space for Willie’s Café.

Comfortable seating, fresh flowers,

and outstanding food and service

complete the picture.

Menu Highlights

Owner Ian Kennard and his amazing

staff share one core belief: “Willie’s is

all about eating real food.” The menu

features daily homemade soups, fresh

salads, and delicious sandwiches,

wraps and desserts. Local suppliers

and vendors are supported. All the

beef, turkey, pork and chicken are

cooked in-house to ensure a fresh,

preservative-free meal.

Freshly baked goods are all

produced on premise, and even the full

Espresso Bar features coffee roasted

in the building, by Fire Roasted Coffee. Invigorate your morning with your

favourite caffeine beverage, muffin, donut or sweet, and Willie’s Kickstart

Breakfast Sandwich — made with espresso mayo!

Other recommendations include the sautéed Warm Spinach Salad

topped with crumbled feta cheese; the signature Cranberry Turkey Wrap;

and the Jerk Chicken Wrap — oven-roasted, sautéed and spicy on a flour

tortilla with curried

mayonnaise.

Be sure to check

out the other vendors

and businesses at 630

Dundas. Willie’s is just

Willie’s Homemade Beverages

one part of a vibrant

community.

LONDON

Historic Heritage Building

Lots of Parking

Close to All Old East Village

Attractions & Amenities

Breakfast & Lunch Mon-Fri

Espresso Bar

Homemade Cold Beverages

Office Catering & Delivery

Club Willie Sandwich

Willie’s Sweet Treat Selection

Office Lunch Specialists

localflavour.ca 47

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

Italian-inspired

Casual Dining

6675 Burtwistle Lane

(off Colonel Talbot Road near 401)

MAP B p20: 14 519-652-7659

pastosgrill.com

TripAdvisor Certificate of

Excellence

Desserts Made In-House

Approachable Wine List

Gluten-Friendly Options

Wedding & Event Specialists

Take-Out & Catering

Available

Interesting & Affordable Wine List

Well-Stocked Comfortable Bar

A Taste of Italy Awaits!

50 localflavour.ca

LONDON

Italian Seduction,

Bite By Bite

PASTO’S GRILL

Inspired by travel and a passion for the traditions of Italian culture and

cuisine, Pasto’s Grill practices the Italian principles of proper execution

and simple recipes featuring the

freshest seasonal ingredients.

The Scene

Pasto’s Grill is a casually elegant yet

chic bistro. Decorated in warm and

calming shades, dark wood, butcherblock

tables and surrounded by wine

racks and period posters. Service

is friendly and professional, and

they specialize in group events and

celebrations. This is a perfect venue

for weddings, showers, rehearsal

dinners and birthdays.

Menu Highlights

The kitchen is the hub of the

restaurant. All meals are scratch-made by the dedicated culinary brigade.

Traditional recipes are at the heart of the menu with occasional nods to

global and modern influences and

sensitivities.

The antipasti menu offers plenty of

choice including the Chef’s selection

of cured meats and local cheeses.

Other recommendations include:

• Pear Salad with field greens, red

peppers, premium blue cheese,

candied pecans, fresh pear slices,

Champagne vinaigrette;

• Hand-made, thin crust pizzas with

classics such as the San Michelle,

with pesto, garlic, sliced tomatoes,

grilled chicken spinach, goat

cheese and mozzarella;

• Pastas such at Seafood Linguini or

Braised Beef and Wild Mushroom

Boscaiola.

LONDON


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 runway. 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

aeronautical theme. Bright and

airy, the tarmac-side patio and

large windows allow for viewing

flights. There is not a bad seat

Plane Spotting

Menu Highlights

Katana Kafé offers a modern take on the

bistro theme, with something for everyone.

Chef Jaime Pena 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 burgers to perfectly

grilled steaks and decadent seafood.

Housemade breads, preserves, and

desserts are the pride of the kitchen, with

details that lift a good experience into a

great experience. Consignment wines, craft

beers and cocktails are available. Menu

suggestions include:

Powerful plane,

Powerful Nate & Cam


in the house! Reservations are

recommended.

LONDON

Chef Jaime Pena

• Eggs Benedict, Omelettes,

French Toast and Pancakes —

from the Breakfast menu;

• Seared Summer Squash and

Halloumi Burger, Seafood

Risotto and Cottage Pie —

from the Lunch menu;

• Mussels, Duck Confit, AAA

Beef Tenderloin and Catch

of the Day — from the Dinner

menu.

LONDON

Modern Bistro

2530 Blair Blvd. (off Crumlin

Road) in the Diamond Flight Centre

MAP B p20: 15 519-455-9005

katanakafe.com

Weekend Breakfasts

London International Airport

Runway Views

Free Parking

1 Block North of the Airport,

off Crumlin Side Road

Seasonal Mussels

Sticky Toffee Pudding

1/2 Price Bottles of Wine

Wednesdays

localflavour.ca 51

LONDON

LONDON

Casual Italian/

Mediterranean &

Traditional Pub

153-155 Albert Street

(W of Richmond)

MAP B p20: 16 519-642-2300

fellinikoolini.com

runtclub.ca

Build Your Own Thin Crust

Pizza or Pasta Creation

Seasonal Terrace & Patio

Children’s Menus

A Passion for Pasta

Gourmet Pizzas

Half Priced Apps Sunday &

Tuesday–Thursday 8–10pm;

Friday & Saturday 10pm–12am

52 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


LONDON

Casual Bar & Grill

595 Richmond Street

(at Central)

MAP B p20: 17 519-663-5665

joekoolsrestaurant.ca

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 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

The Kitchen Sink Pizza

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

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

Happy Hour Food & Drinks Specials

Monday–Thursday 2–5pm

localflavour.ca 53

LONDON

LONDON

European Cuisine

& English Beer Pub

122 Carling Street (at Talbot)

MAP B p20: 18 519-679-9940

marienbad.ca

MARIENBAD


Fine Banquet Facilities

Murder Mystery Dinners

CHAUCER’S

Large Craft & Import Beer

Selection

Single Malt Specialists

Folk Music

Traditional Fare

Elegant Private Rooms

Heritage Building, c. 1854

54 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

Marienbad Restaurant 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


LONDON

Family Friendly

African Dining

465 Dundas Street (at Maitland)

MAP B p20: 19 519-433-4222

tgsaddisababarestaurant.ca

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.


LONDON

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 55

LONDON

Tea Shoppe & Café

268 Piccadilly Street

(just east of Richmond)

MAP B p20: 20 519-601-8327

tealoungelondon.com

Experience LONDON

the

World of Tea

100+ Ethically Sourced Teas

Lunch, Scones & Treats

Local Coffee & Kombucha

Iced Teas & Lattes

Bookable Special

Experiences

Shop Teas & Teaware Online

Classes & Events

Come for Tea

Stay for Lunch

Mini Afternoon Tea for 2

56 localflavour.ca

THE TEA LOUNGE

Every sip and taste should be an

experience that delights your

senses, while creating space for

connection, health, and gratitude.

The Tea Lounge believes taste and

quality go hand-in-cup; that tea and

food are best enjoyed when both are

exceptional, ethical, and conscious

of mother earth. Owner Michelle

Pierce Hamilton is also the founder of

beTeas (est. 2012), London’s specially

curated tea brand of ethically sourced

fine teas from around the world.

The Scene

Nestled on the edge of downtown just

east of Richmond Row, this boutique tea shoppe and café welcomes visitors

with a beautiful ambiance that emanates calm. Choose from outdoor or

indoor seating, a café table, central lounge or the ‘tea meditation’ nook.

Tea Highlights

An impressive selection of teas, tisanes and other specialty beverages are

available for every mood and preference. Ever tried Gongfu Cha? Beautiful

traditional teaware and knowledgeable staff make it easy to learn and

experience multiple infusions. A variety of service styles are available. Order

lunch or gourmet soup and fresh scones from the regular menu, or pre-book

a special Mini Afternoon Tea for 2 (72 hours’ notice – book online).

A Sommelier-selected

Tea Flight Experience is

a perfect activity to enjoy

after lunch, elegantly

served in wine glasses

with a guided tasting

card. An array of other

specialty beverages

and french press coffee

available to enjoy with

treats. Find a class on

the website to learn and

experience more fun!

LONDON

Michelle Pierce Hamilton,

Tea Sommelier

& Certified Nutritionist


London

Specialty Shops

& Services

Pouring Fresh

for 10 Years

THE PRISTINE OLIVE

TASTING BAR

In June 2012, Jamie & Clara Griffiths (with son Reid, and

daughter Ally) introduced The Pristine Olive Tasting Bar to

London, and for the past decade fresh extra virgin olive oils

and savoury balsamic vinegars have been the essence of

their family business and the cornerstone of success.

58

LONDON

Olive Oil & Balsamic

Vinegar Tasting Bar

884 Adelaide St. North

(at Grosvenor)

MAP B p20: 21 519-433-4444

thepristineolive.ca

Bright and Welcoming Retail Space

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.

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. “A fresh olive oil contains the most flavour, nutrients and health benefits,”

explains Jamie. “Whereas an old, poorly made, improperly stored or

fraudulent olive oil yields fewer, if any, health benefits.”

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 ultimate in flavour,

authenticity, tree-to bottle transparency

and third-party sensory and chemistry

lab testing. Their focus on freshness is

guaranteed through the rotation of all

their olive oils with every harvest. For half

the year, The Pristine Olive imports extra

virgin olive oils produced in the Northern

Hemisphere, and the other half of the

year, oils produced from the Southern

Hemisphere. As Jamie attests, “We never

have oils available past the 12-month mark

following their actual harvest/crush date.”

Over 60 All-Natural Olive Oils

& Balsamic Vinegars

A myriad of choices — all available to try before you buy — will ignite your

taste buds. And the value placed on purity certainly doesn’t end with their

olive oils. As one of the few companies in the world to offer a truly colourfree

product, all the aged dark balsamic vinegars available at The Pristine

Olive are caramel-colour free, with no added thickeners or sweeteners.

The Pristine Olive recently updated and modernized the kitchen space

in the back of the

building as a place

to host future tasting

parties and group

events. Watch the

website, Facebook

and Instagram pages

for exciting updates,

as there are many

new ideas and

projects on the go.

#wherefreshmatters


Modern Kitchen Space

LONDON

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 Location

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. N (at Central)

MAP B p20: 22 519-672-7827

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.

The business settled

into its current location in

2008, when Blake and Jodie

The Marshall Family


purchased Lusitana Martins

Bakery, purveyors of the

crusty Portuguese 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, 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

Wide Variety of Different Pastas

localflavour.ca 61

Authentic Farm-to-Table

Gourmet-to-Go

BLACKFRIARS

PANTRY/LARDER/BAKERY

Inspired by its heritage neighbourhood location and

a deep commitment to supporting local farms and

suppliers, Blackfriars Pantry/Larder/Bakery is a onestop

shop for authentic high quality gourmet items,

including coffee-based drinks and cold beverages,

delicious from-scratch baked goods made in-house,

artisanal cheeses and local dairy products, and

heat-and-serve gourmet takeaway meals.

62

LONDON

Farm-to-Table

Gourmet Store

44 Blackfriars St. (Off Wharncliffe)

MAP B p20: 23 519-667-4930

blackfriarsbistro.com

The Scene

Located right next door to its sister Blackfriars Bistro, this gourmet

food shop is nestled in the heart of the Blackfriars/Petersville Heritage

Conservation District,

Just two blocks from

the neighborhood’s

historic namesake

Blackfriars Bridge,

recently refurbished,

the store is also close to

fabled Labatt Memorial

Park, the world’s oldest

Proprietors Bryan Lavery

and Emanuela Frongia


baseball stadium.

The Goods

Inspired by the

past, you will find yesteryear’s best practices of from-scratch baking,

local sourcing of ingredients and an

enthusiastic use of the season’s bounty,

Blackfriars Pantry/Larder/Bakery offers a

contemporary gourmet twist on traditional

favourites and comfort foods. In addition

to high quality specialty items from local

farms and suppliers, expect chef-made

soups, sauces, salads and dressings, as

well as freshly baked cakes, tarts and

sweet treats. Seasonal takeaway meals

might include a truly memorable lasagne or

tortière, classic cabbage rolls, shepherd’s

pie or creamy mac & cheese.

Baker Soniya Jagtap

Baker Makhaila St. Denis

The People

Proprietors Bryan Lavery and Emanuela

Frongia bring years of experience to

both curate the selection of items for

sale and help create gourmet takeaway

meals. In-house bakers Gary Rowsell,

Makhaila St. Denis and Soniya Jagtap

finesse their classic “everything from

scratch” approach to offer customers

delicious show-stoppers, including

signature buttercream cupcakes,

outstanding special-occasion pastries

and cakes, and deluxe wedding cakes.

LONDON

Local Seasonal Produce

Artisanal Gift Baskets

Variety of Local Coffee

Roasters’ Products

Ice Cream & Gelato by the

Cone or Carton

Seasonal Patio

Curbside Pickup Available

Ample Parking

Premier Catering Available

Soups, Sauces & Dairy Products

Fresh Local Meats & Charcuterie

localflavour.ca 63

London’s First Cafe,

Wine Bar & Market

GRACE BODEGA

This unique shop offers enticing items reflecting

the best of international grocery staples, artisanal

baking, groceries, and seasonal local produce.

You’ll find excellent espresso beverages and

a welcoming space to enjoy them. Fans of the

grape will enjoy a special glass and an exciting

bottle shop to take home natural wines from small

producers from Ontario and around the world.

64

LONDON

Sourdough Baked Goods


The Scene

Grace Bodega opened in the summer

of 2021 directly next door to sister

restaurant Grace. Following much of

the same ethos as the restaurant, Grace

Bodega is a multi-faceted business with

a focus on local and artisanal products.

By day, you’ll find an excellent café

and fresh market offering international

pantry staples and local dairy, eggs,

and produce when in season.

At night, the Bodega transforms

into London’s first and only natural

wine bar and bottle shop, featuring

small-batch, handmade wines from tiny

producers, never available at the LCBO.

Menu Highlights

Two types of espresso are offered, as

well as pour-over and house-crafted

specialty coffee beverages. The house

“Grace Blend” is roasted by Las Chicas

in St. Thomas and a selection of experimental and world-class beans are

roasted by Subtext Coffee Roasters in Toronto.

Baked goods are made in-house, with a focus on sourdough, including

loaves, baguettes, and a rotating selection of pastries, cookies, and other

prepared foods available for dine-in or take out.

The bottle shop focus is on organic/biodynamic unfiltered wines, made

with little to no additives. You’ll

taste the difference immediately.

Choices may be from Czech

Republic, Canary Islands, the

Republic of Georgia, France, Italy,

and Spain, as well as local wines

from small producers in Niagara

and Prince Edward County. Wine

is available for both dine-in and

to take home.

Snacks and small bites are

also available, such as oysters,

housemade dips, cheese and

charcuterie, quiche, and more.

Organic/Biodynamic Unfiltered Wines

LONDON

Contemporary

Canadian

211 Dundas Street (at Clarence)

MAP B p20: 24 226-289-2793

gracelondon.ca

Artisanal Pantry Items

Espressos & Specialty Drinks

Natural Wines Bottle Shop

Seasonal Local Produce

Seasonal Patio

Eat-In or Takeout Food

Plenty of Nearby Parking

Espressos & Specialty Coffees

Snacks and Small Bites

Sidewalk Patio

localflavour.ca 65

LONDON

LONDON

Custom Bakery

1305 Riverbend Rd, Suite 110

(at Oxford Street West)

MAP B p20: 25 519-433-CAKE

(2253)

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

Variety of Freshly Baked Pastries

Custom Cake & Matching Cupcake

The ORIGINAL London Cakery

66 localflavour.ca

Delicious Bites

of Creativity

HEY, CUPCAKE!

Each delicious delicacy 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

Walk-In Orders Available

plastic packaging and moved into a solar-powered facility in 2019. They

added more vegan, gluten-free and keto options. Other exciting changes

include an expanded breakfast menu and lots of pastries, including

turnovers, scones, squares and decorated cookies. In warmer months, both

a frozen yogurt and a slushie machine crank out tasty cool flavours.

Menu Highlights

Scan the large variety of baking from the

revolving daily menu. Love chocolate? You’ll

find chocolate-covered oreos, hot chocolate

bombs, cake-sicles, cake-in-a-jar ... and the list

goes on. Everything is baked fresh, so walk-in

options will change daily. Special Flavours and

Custom Cupcakes are available with 48 hours

notice. Curbside pickup, initiated during COVID,

is offered as an optional service indefinitely.

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

Custom Cakes,

Cupcakes & Cookies


LONDON

London’s Destination

For Food Lovers

Proprietor Jill Wilcox


JILL’S TABLE

For more than 22 years Jill’s Table

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 selections

from Moss Berry Farms, The Garlic Box and Joe Beef.

You can also check out many of the excellent products available on

the shop.jillstable.ca e-store. Jill’s Table is also pleased to offer gift

registry services.

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.

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

Kitchen Shop


MAP B p20: 26 519-645-1335

jillstable.ca

Superior Kitchenware

Unique Specialty Foods

Outstanding Selection of

Oils & Vinegars

Gift Registry Services

Gift Wrapping Available

Cooking Classes for All Levels

Unique Specialty Foods

Superior Kitchenware & Utensils

Across from Covent Garden Market

localflavour.ca 67

Middlesex

For centuries, farmers and rural landowners in

Middlesex have built strong ties to the land. Local

agriculture has diversified into the broad mix we

see today. Innovative products and specialties

abound, reflected in Middlesex restaurants,

farmers’ markets and agri-tourism industries.

History and heritage are around every corner.

LONDON

Map C — MIDDLESEX COUNTY

Lake Huron

7

Ilderton

4

Thorndale

2

402

27

22

Strathroy

81

Mt. Brydges

Dorchester

28

401

402

2

3

401

Lake Erie


MIDDLESEX COUNTY

localflavour.ca 69

Discover Our

Grassroutes...

Scan Me!

www.visitmiddlesex.ca

Scan Me!

the food on your plate?

The next time you sit down to enjoy a meal, whether it

be in the comfort of your home, or within the walls of

your favourite restaurant, take a closer look at what’s in

front of you before you dig in. It’s time to serve up a new

standard – and it starts with supporting local.

Check out all the amazing local

partnerships at handstotable.ca

Follow us on:

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.

72

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 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. The Clock

Tower was recently Feast ON-certified as an authentic “Taste of Ontario”

restaurant. Each menu item reflects 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,

from elevated pub fare to 5-star desserts. Recommendations include:

• 30 Mile Salad, with locallysourced

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;

• Mile High Lemon Meringue

Pie, Chef Mark’s light chiffon

pie with golden meringue,

garnished with raspberry coulis

The Pub


and fresh berries.

The Bistro

MIDDLESEX COUNTY

STRATHROY

Inn | Bistro |

Pub | Caterer

71 Frank Street

(at Centre Street West)

MAP C p69: 27 519-245-5656

or 519-205-1500

clocktower-inn.com

clocktowercatering.ca

Voted People’s Choice Award

— Strathroy’s Favourite Resto

Catering In-house or Offsite

Seasonal Patios

Large Capacity Event Space

8 Unique Guest Suites

Fresh Locally-Sourced Ingredients

Innovative Housemade Desserts

The King Edward Suite

Clock

Tower

Inn | Bistro | Pub | Cateri

localflavour.ca 73

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.

74

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 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.

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, . Crispy-coated Chicken Parmesan

is served with a side of spaghetti

in a rich tomato sauce. Other

recommendations include a

hearty Prosciutto Sandwich with

pomodoro, mozzarella, balsamic

glaze, and arugula; and Creamy

Penne Pesto with Portobello,

caramelized onion, toasted pine nuts,

and Parmesan cheese.

An exciting Take-out Menu as

well as Oven-Ready Meal Kits are

also available.


Open Kitchen

MIDDLESEX COUNTY

DORCHESTER

Regional Italian

Bistro

2135 Dorchester Rd (Hwy 32)

MAP C p69: 28 519-268-0001

fatolive.ca

Italian-Inspired Family-

Friendly Restaurant

Unique Italian Wines

Local Craft Beers

Open Kitchen

Ample Free Parking

Reservations Recommended

Take-out Menu Available

LOGO DEVELOPED FOR:

FAT OLIVE

Pesto Stomboli

Fettucine Alfredo

ONE INK

Sweet Ricotta Mini Cannolis

localflavour.ca 75

Oxford

The back roads and country lanes of Oxford

provide pastoral landscapes on the trail to

noteworthy culinary experiences. You might

see an Amish horse and buggy but you’ll also

encounter contemporary takes on Oxford

heritage. The Oxford County Cheese Trail, for

example, pays delicious homage to “Canada’s

Dairy Capital” history. A diverse array of

culinary experience awaits, and diners can get

a genuine taste of Oxford in every bite and sip.

WOODSTOCK

Map D — OXFORD COUNTY

Shakespeare

47

8

7

59

N

OXFORD COUNTY

401

2

42

43

32

29 31

Woodstock

403

401

59

19

Mt Elgin

30

59

3

3

NORFOLK COUNTY

3

Simcoe

47

24

Lake Erie


OXFORD COUNTY

Turkey Point

localflavour.ca 77

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.

Soap and Solace

Get hands on at Wild Comfort

Body Care exploring the

science, creativity, and solace of

soapmaking. Each person brings

home a batch of soap they made,

customized to their preferred

scent and colour. All done with natural ingredients.

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.

Harvest Brunch

A true farm to table experience at

Thames River Melons that has you

gathering produce from the field,

preparing it in the kitchen and

sitting down to a romantic brunch

on the farm.

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. Be delighted as you

watch your farm-to-table meal

come together, enjoy some special

tastes along the way and interact

with the Chef.

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 felds 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.

The Roasting Lab

Join Early Bird Coffee owner, Elio

Caporici, to roast a batch of coffee.

Explore the beans and care that goes

into every batch. An experience for

the curious and coffee lovers.

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

Head out on a self-guided 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

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

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

WOODSTOCK

Contemporary

Farm-to-Table

639 Peel Street (at Young)

MAP D p77: 29 519-536-9602

sixthirtynine.com

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. The restaurant

wine program features both high quality regional vqa wines and a host of

unique international wines. Great 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 up-close look at the talented

kitchen crew in action. That service

is often headed by Sous Chef Sam

Vandenberg, who ensures guests

have an engaging 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.

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.

Seasonal Tasting Menus are

Hand Rolled Cavatelli


Beautiful Flavourful

Seasonal Menus

available year round for guests both at

the Chef’s Table and in the dining room.

OXFORD COUNTY

Open for Dinner Only

Reservations may be made

online at exploretock.com/

sixthirtynine

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

Delicious Experiences

At The Oxford Hills

—

KALOS

Nestled high in the heart of Oxford County, KALOS guests

enjoy memorable meals crafted from local ingredients

while warmly enveloped in a stylish and modern space

with spectacular views of The Oxford Hills — a top-tier golf

course and event space — and the surrounding countryside.

82

MOUNT ELGIN

Contemporary

Farm-to-Table

324183 Mt Elgin Road

MAP D p77: 30 1-844-285-2567

kalosonthehills.ca

The Scene

Panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows and a wrap-around patio offer

picturesque views of serene greens, ponds, and water features punctuated

by beautifully rugged bedrock — a perfect backdrop for enjoying a

delicious meal. The

newly constructed

building boasts a

modern and elegant

design featuring an

exposed wood ceiling,

distinctly artistic

masonry, and wooden

furniture handcrafted

right in Oxford County.

The bright and

spacious yet cozy and

welcoming atmosphere provides the ultimate location for an extraordinary

dining experience and a celebration you’ll always remember.

Menu Highlights

Come discover dishes you didn’t know you missed! A meal at KALOS is

a celebration of local ingredients and culinary vision — a promise that

everything will be as memorable as it is tasty. The kitchen philosophy is

simple. Local. Delicious. Unique. Highlights may include:

• Salad: kale with crispy prosciutto, grilled rosemary focaccia croutons,

Handeck cheese, and a roasted garlic lemon dressing;

• Appetizer: apple-smoked St. Louis-style pork ribs with Lot 40 BBQ

sauce, green onion and cabbage sprouts;

• Pizza: prosciutto, pear, walnut, blue cheese, smoked honey, cracked

pepper and arugula;

• Entrée: 8oz. wood fire grilled beef tenderloin with apple celery root

purée,organic

mushrooms,

fingerling potato

chips and truffled

red wine jus;

• Dessert: white

chocolate mousse

with brown butter

thyme graham



cracker crumble and

seasonal berries.

OXFORD COUNTY


Full Bar with Special Cocktails

Events and Weddings

Children’s Menu

Woodfired Pizza Oven

Celebrating Local Ingredients

A Variety of Delicious Appetizers

Unique Culinary Creations

localflavour.ca 83

WOODSTOCK

Coffee Roaster

& Café

1. 815 Juliana Drive

(Off Hwy 59, just North of Hwy 401)

MAP D p77: 31 519-532-3127

2. 375 Dundas Street

(Just N of Vannsittart Ave/Hwy 59)

MAP D p77: 32 519-532-3127

earlybirdcoffee.ca

Small-Batch Coffee Roasting

Fresh Coffee & Espressobased

Specialty Drinks

House-Made Baked Goods

Freshly Roasted Coffee by

the Bag

State-of-the-Art Coffee Roasting

Owners Kate and Elio

Warm Friendly Ambiance

84 localflavour.ca

LONDON

Roasted with Love

EARLY BIRD COFFEE

This small-batch coffee roastery and café was established in 2018

by Woodstock resident and Master Roaster Elio Caporicci and

partner Kate Leatherbarrow. Their mission: “To provide Oxford

County with a world-class coffee experience by delivering the

freshest, best tasting, smallbatch

coffee in the region.”

Early Bird Coffee was soon

found in the hearts and mugs

of many area families and

businesses, and a second

café was added in Downtown

Woodstock in 2021. Both

locations have unique offerings

while sharing the same

commitment to great coffee.

The Scene

Conveniently located just off Hwys

401 and 403, the rustic original

space offers a view of the 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. The

second café location offers a warm heritage vibe in Downtown Woodstock,

with soaring ceilings and cozy seating. State-of-the-art espresso machines

in both locations produce the area’s best espresso-based drinks such as

lattes, cappuccinos, cortados and seasonal features. Enjoy your favourite

drink with delicious house-made

baked goods such as pastries,

tarts, cookies and doughnuts.

Coffee Highlights

Early Bird roasts quality, sustainablysourced

coffee beans from farms

in Honduras, Colombia, Brasil and

Ethiopia. Signature house blends

include light, medium and dark

roasts, espresso and decaf. Enjoy

a cup with the good people at Early

Bird, or take a freshly roasted bag

home with you!

OXFORD COUNTY

Second Location

in Downtown

Woodstock

Bright & Friendly

Downtown Café


Huron

Huron County — Ontario’s West Coast — offers

diverse culinary experiences in beautiful settings.

The countryside is a patchwork quilt of rich

farmland and charming communities that boast

well-preserved Victorian-era commercial and

domestic architecture. The coastline stretches

110 km boasts world famous sunsets, with public

beaches and marinas. Outstanding restaurants,

craft breweries, wineries, theatre, museums,

and more combine with a broad range of

accommodations and shopping opportunities.

Map E — HURON COUNTY

GODERICH

Lake Huron

86

4

Goderich

Blyth

48

Bayfield

8

21

53

33

St. Joseph

Grand Bend

Exeter

34

Stratford

4


HURON COUNTY

localflavour.ca 87

Where Heritage

Meets a Passion

for Innovation

THE MUSE AT

HESSENLAND INN

Meet your go-to destination for big milestones, small

celebrations, and every moment in between, nestled on

the shores of Lake Huron. Family owned and operated

by two generations, Hessenland embraces a proud

heritage while embracing innovation with passion. The

Muse — an exciting new restaurant in the Hessenland

tradition — is the living embodiment of those ideals.

88

ST. JOSEPH

The Scene

Sprawling lawns and

gardens and five-acre

Schatz Winery (see

profile on pp. 148-149)

surround the Hessenland

Inn, with its seamless

blend of the best of

old and new. Vintage

“European Country Inn”

features with stylish updates — including an inviting saltwater pool — make

this a popular locale for weddings and other celebrations, or a comfortable

meal any time. The Coach House Reception Hall is available, along with

various sized welcoming spaces indoors and out, including The Muse dining

room, freshly redesigned for Hessenland’s latest chapter.

Menu Highlights

Surrounded by quality-driven producers and farmers and bountiful Lake

Huron, the Hessenland culinary team are inspired by what’s “fresh,

seasonal, and local” as well as the glorious spaces they have access to. The

launch of The Muse by Hessenland Inn reflects those creative influences.

Already Feast ONcertified,

the focus is on

retaining some traditional

German fare favourites

while celebrating local

cuisine with fresh and

innovative dishes that will

change with the seasons.

Signature dining

events — such as Vinyl

in the Vineyard, Long

Table Vineyard Dinners,

Soulitude Retreats, Novemberfest and more — offer a range of menus and

experiences, from intimate tables to grander group experiences. An enticing

Takeout Menu and Pantry staples are available year round. for a genuine

taste of

Hessenland at

home. Schatz

wines and

craft beers,

including

Hessenland’s

own Helles

The Coach House Reception Hall


HURON COUNTY

lager, can also

be ordered.

Seasonal Farm-to-

Table Cuisine & Inn

72981 Bluewater Highway

(Hwy 21)

MAP E p87: 33 519-236-7707

or 1-866 -543-7736

hessenland.com

Steps from Lake Huron

Modern & Heritage

Accommodations

Saltwater Pool

Coach House Reception Hall

Signature Dining Events

Wine Tours & Tastings

Takeout Menu & Pantry

Staples Available

The Best of Local Ingredients

Fresh Housemade Desserts

Group Dining Experiences

localflavour.ca 89

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, seasonallyinspired

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.

90

Partially Covered Heated Seasonal Patio

EXETER

Owner Chef James Eddington


The Scene

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 dining room to

ensure well-spaced tables and a fully-shaded seasonal deck, blend

smoothly with original features such as elegant 12-foot ceilings.

Menu Highlights

Chef/owner James Eddington leads a

stellar team 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.

Enjoy Happy Hour specials and try

one of Eddington’s own craft beers

or a specialty cocktail. The wine list,

featuring local wineries and imports,

always has something interesting for everyone.

White Squirrel

Cheesecake

Roasted Red Pepper Bisque

Gourmet Pizza

Nights are inspired

and perennial favourite

evenings. Innovative

menus change with the

seasons and always

include fresh lake fish,

locally-sourced beef

and proteins, and a

selection of vegan and

vegetarian options.

HURON COUNTY

Contemporary

Farm-to-Table

Cuisine

527 Main Street (Hwy 4)

MAP E p87: 34 519-235-3030

eddingtons.ca

Menu Changes Seasonally

Partially Covered Heated

Summer Patio

Adventure Culinary Tours

Eddington’s Own Premium

Craft Beers

Ample Free Parking

Close to Theatres

Feast ON at Eddington’s

Housemade Burger & Fries

Gourmet Pizza Nights

localflavour.ca 91

Sarnia-

Lambton

Blue water characterizes much

of what Sarnia-Lambton brings to its

residents and visitors. Beautiful towns and

sand dune beaches abound here, in the heart of

the Great Lakes region where the twin Blue Water Bridge

over the St. Clair River links Canada to Port Huron, Michigan.

Expect a rich selection of culinary experiences and a warm welcome.

Explore more and

Support Local in

Sarnia-Lambton

Blackwater Coffee- Sarnia

Bad Dog- Sarnia

A great culinary experience satisfies the tastebuds

and captures the heart of anyone, even those with

the most discerning palate. Whether your vacation

plans are to taste home-made and locally sourced

comfort food favorites or to step off the beaten

path and find new flavours, Sarnia-Lambton is the

perfect place to explore more and support local

entrepreneurs as they share their passion with

every dish.

Must-Visit Local Hotspots

• Actor’s Casual Dining - Petrolia

• Armor’s Ale House - Alvinston

• Bad Dog - Corunna & Sarnia

• Blackwater Coffee - Sarnia

• Grog’s Pub & Grill - Thedford

• Los Puntos - Point Edward

• The Lake Hound - Grand Bend

• The Tin Fiddler - Sarnia

The Tipsy Pelican - Grand Bend

Discover More at:

ONTBLUECOAST.COM

STRATFORD

Map F — SARNIA-LAMBTON

Grand Bend

35

Lake Huron

21

54

Thedford

Sarnia

48

Plympton-Wyoming

402

22

40

79

Alvinston

80

21

2

21

Lake St. Clair

40

401

94 localflavour.ca SARNIA-LAMBTON Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide

Raise a glass and

Cheers to the Coast

in Sarnia-Lambton

Alton Farms Estate Winery - Plympton-Wyoming

Black Gold Brewery - Petrolia

Nothing compliments a perfect meal better than a

freshly poured beverage pairing. Sarnia-Lambton’s

ever-expanding craft drink scene highlights the

best in locally produced wine, cider and craft

beer. With 16 different craft beverage producers

located in Sarnia-Lambton, you can explore award

winning drinks while sitting back, relaxing, and

taking in the breathtaking natural scenery of

Sarnia-Lambton.

Reasons to ‘Cheers’

• 16 award winning drink producers

• 10 craft breweries

• 3 wineries

• 3 cideries/meaderies

• Unique urban and rural settings

• Delicious local food pairings

• Exciting special events, concerts and more

at every location

Shale Ridge Estate Winery & Cidery - Thedford

Discover More at:

ONTBLUECOAST.COM

Casual Fine Dining

With a Modern Twist

—

F.I.N.E. A RESTAURANT

Owner/Chef Erryn Shephard has a deep love of French

cuisine. Together with Chef Ben Sandwith, who has presided

over the kitchen for the past 18 years, and Sous Chef Hamish

McCall, they have made F.I.N.E. a beloved Southwest Ontario

destination for those looking for a special dining experience.

96

Chef/Owner Erryn Shephard, Front of House

Manager Susan Tebrugge, and Chef Ben Sandwith

GRAND BEND

Contemporary

French Bistro

42 Ontario St. South (Hwy 21)

MAP F p94: 35 519-238-6224

finearestaurant.com

Owner/Chef

Erryn Shephard

who prefer lighter or vegetarian fare.

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.

Elegant Cottage Appeal & Seasonal Patio


The Scene

The restaurant is divided into two

sections, each evoking the feel of an

elegant cabin with stunning artwork

and funky seasonal decorations. A

comfortable patio offers a street view

out front and there’s a private room

upstairs. Front-of-house is managed

by the invaluable Susan Tebrugge.

Menu Highlights

An active volunteer and fundraiser for

numerous charities, Chef Shephard’s

generous spirit is also evident in the

F.I.N.E. kitchen. Expect exuberance with

rich ingredients in classically-inspired

dishes, with equal respect for customers

Warm Coffee

Pot du Crème

Your F.I.N.E. visit

simply must include

dessert. Shephard’s

cheesecakes are

deep and creamy,

and she’s playful

with surprising twists

and sweet sauces,

cookies and candies.

SARNIA-LAMBTON

Steps to the River & 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 97

localflavour.ca 97

Windsor-

Essex-

Pelee Island

The calming ferry ride to discover the charms of

Pelee Island, the most southern point in Canada,

is but one of myriad adventures ahead. From

multicultural Windsor’s vibrant restaurant scene,

to the County’s bountiful agriculture and the Lake

Erie North Shore Wine Route, there are countless

sources of great local flavour here. Check out the

EPIC Wine Tasting Pass and the Barrels, Bottles &

Brews Flight Log for solid suggestions and deals.

98

CHATHAM

Map G —

WINDSOR-ESSEX-PELEE ISLAND

Lake St. Clair

Windsor

22

401

9

3

401

77

20

Amherstburg

55

8

3

50

50

Harrow

20

49

Kingsville

52

Lake Erie

51

Pelee Island


WINDSOR-ESSEX-PELEE ISLAND

localflavour.ca 99

WINDSOR

In Crust We Trust

SO, WHAT’S THE BIG DEAL WITH WINDSOR PIZZA?

It all comes down to keeping it simple and staying true to a winning recipe.

Join our Windsor Pizza Club and eat more pizza! Grab a membership card and

get it stamped – then redeem your card online. We’ll ship you a FREE Windsor

Pizza Club shirt once you’ve visited all 8 spots.

The Super

A local favourite! The Super is topped

with cheese, mushrooms, sausage,

bacon and green peppers.

Galati Cheese

Based in Windsor, the Galati Cheese

Company is the go-to supplier for fresh

made mozzarella.

SHREDDED PEPPERONI

Round pepperoni is good, but shredded

is better! Get a satisfying taste of

pepperoni in every bite.

CANNED MUSHROOMS

This is for the cold pizza lovers! We use

canned mushrooms to prevent the pizza

from getting soggy.

We love our pizza

so much, former

residents will pay

big bucks to fly our

pizzas out west for

parties and more.

Get all the

fixings!

For pizza deals and to

join the club visit:

windsorpizzaclub.ca

3.

1.

2.

4.

1. EPIC TASTING PASSPORT

2. BARRELS BOTTLES & BREWS FLIGHT LOG

3. COFFEE CULTURE

4. W.E. HEART LOCAL PASSPORT

Chatham-

Kent

Chatham-Kent is known for excellent fishing and clean

sandy beaches along both Lake Erie and Lake St. Clair.

Inland, a vibrant agricultural community sells quality meat,

fruit and vegetables to local restaurants and home chefs.

Enjoyable farm tours and you-pick operations are available.

Local history — especially that of the Underground Railroad

and the development of Black Canadian culture — is

presented in informative and powerful ways, making a trip

to Chatham-Kent one to remember.

Map H — CHATHAM-KENT

CHATHAM

21

Thamesville

40

Kent Bridge

2

Lake St. Clair

Chatham

36

3

401

Erieau

44

1

Lake Erie

3

Wheatley


CHATHAM-KENT

localflavour.ca 103

C HEE R S TO

C H ATHA M-KE N T

With three craft breweries and a unique

winery,

you’re invited to discover the great

tastes of Chatham-Kent

BAYSIDE BREWING CO. – ERIEAU

At Early Acres Estate Winery, they believe in

enjoying life’s special moments with family and

friends, and the best way to do that is with a

visit to their country setting winery and enjoying

a glass of grown-on-site wine. After nine years

of growing grapes and refining their selection.

Early Acres had its first harvest in the Fall of

2012, perfecting their wines ever since to

produce several award winning vintages.

Their patio offers captivating views of

Rondeau Bay to enjoy while you sip a

pint of one of their many great beers.

Accompanying their amazing beer is an

incredible menu, with so much to choose

from, including a fan favourite: wood-firedoven

pizza. Our personal go-to, of course,

is the CK Hawaiian. Fun fact: Hawaiian

Pizza was invented in Chatham in 1962!

EARLY ACRES ESTATE WINERY – CHATHAM

RED BARN BREWING CO. – BLENHEIM

CK’s newest brewery is all about family, farm and beer. Enjoy a pint

at welcoming Red Barn Brewing Co. in Blenheim. Whether it’s on the

expansive patio, in the brewing room, or in the brew house, we

suggest a pint of Home Farm, a blonde ale, served ice cold and,

like all their beers, brewed in-house.

SONS OF KENT BREWING CO – CHATHAM

Sons of Kent in Chatham brew premium craft beer, traditionally

created with modern flavours. Firmly believing in supporting local

agriculture, they partner with area farmers to produce a variety of

hand crafted brews, all with local ingredients. All of their beers are

produced and bottled on site and available to take home from their

bottle shop. Their kitchen also offers a small menu with just the

right pairings for each pint.

1.800.561-6125 - VISITCK.CA - @VISITCHATHAMKENT

A Step Closer to Italy,

A Step Closer to Home!

MAMMA MARIA’S

RISTORANTE

From the moment you enter, you are immediately immersed

in old world atmosphere. You are in another place, another

time. 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.

106

CHATHAM

Authentic Italian

231 King St West (at Forsyth St.)

MAP I p115: 36 519-360-1600

mammamariasristorante.ca

The Scene

The dining room and bar feature warm interlocking stone tiles, red brick and

stucco walls with murals and frescos, enhanced by eclectic lighting fixtures.

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

seasonal patio with redcheckered

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

charcuterie 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,



Gracious Old World Ambiance

Seasonal Riverside Patio

finished with a maple glaze.

Buon appetito!

CHATHAM-KENT

Family-Friendly Hospitality


Fresh, Authentic Food

Seasonal Riverside Patio

Family Owned & Operated

Classic Menu Options

Authentic Italian Cuisine


localflavour.ca 107

Elgin

Elgin has the tremendous good fortune to be

centrally located on the north shore of Lake Erie.

A magnificent waterfront and sandy beaches —

and the charming villages that straddle it — are

a natural draw for adventure. Visitors are well

advised to consult the Savour Elgin Culinary Trail

for superb culinary ideas and inspiration. You’ll

find excellent farm-to-table restaurants, wineries

and craft brewers, farmers’ markets and farm

gate and culinary retail. There’s even a lavender

farm to explore, with more special ways to take

home a taste of Elgin County.

Map I — ELGIN COUNTY

N

3

2

401

402

401

3

40

St. Thomas

4

37

Port Stanley

Belmont

Lake Erie


ELGIN COUNTY

localflavour.ca 109

Savour the

flavour

of Elgin County

R

estaurants, tea rooms, and cafés dot the Elgin

County countryside and line the main streets of its

quaint towns and villages serving everything from hearty country fare

to fine dining options.

Spend a leisurely morning browsing one of several local farmers’

markets where you can find everything from fruits and vegetables to

organic meats, eggs, herbs, and honey — all produced in Elgin County.

Learn about the source of your food at one of the area’s bustling

agritourism operations. Sit down to a hearty meal, expertly crafted with

local ingredients, or spend an afternoon tasting wines produced with

fruit grown right here in Elgin County.

The Savour Elgin Culinary Trail is a route through Elgin County that

visits the best culinary attractions focusing on food and drink that

is local and unique to the Elgin County area.

Look for Savour Elgin member signs on display across the County.

The farmers and producers of Elgin County grow a bounty of

amazing tastes to be savoured throughout every season of the

year. Let Buy Local! Buy Fresh! Elgin County be your guide to the

freshest in-season produce.

elgintourist.com

#elgineats

#savourelgin

Elgin’s Premiere Farm-to-

Table Dining Experience

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.

112

PORT STANLEY

Farm-to-Table

Cuisine & Inn

324 Smith Street

(Over the bridge, before the beach)

MAP I p109: 37 519-782-4173

thewindjammerinn.com

Chef de Cuisine & Owner Mark

Graham and his wife Cathy

Owner/Chef

Kim Saunders


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 the Windjammer’s Chef Table menu. This prix fixe offering

for dinner service changes weekly.

Always innovative, Chef draws upon years of experience with what she

calls her Flora and Fauna Collections. The Flora Collection is predominantly

plant-forward dishes and most can be prepared fully plant-based upon

request. Offerings might include a savoury Southern Crunch Cauliflower

with an Alabama tailgate sauce and

siracha maple drizzle. A feature from

the Fauna Collection could include

exquisite 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

Menu Changes Seasonally

Chef’s Table Prix Fixe Dinner

Service Changes Weekly

Recommended in Where to

Eat in Canada for 15

Consecutive Years

Gourmet Breakfast Included

with Overnight Stays

The “BLT” Benny

Lake Erie Line-Caught Pickerel

Housemade Desserts from Scratch

localflavour.ca 113

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LONDON’S

LOCAL FLAVOUR

CULINARY GUIDE Volume 5

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eatdrink.ca

116

Local

Craft Beer


LOCAL CRAFT BEER

localflavour.ca 117

Visit the home of Canadian

Whisky and get a taste at our 12

craft breweries & 2 distilleries!

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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.

120

LONDON

Brewery, Farm-to-

Table Pub & Retail

Beer Store

585 Richmond St. (at Central)

MAP B p20: 38 519-433-BEER

(2337)

tobogganbrewing.com

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

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 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.


Happy Hour Food & Drinks Specials

Monday–Thursday 2–5pm

LOCAL CRAFT BEER

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

House-Smoked Meat Sandwiches

localflavour.ca 121

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, relying on Canadian-grown

barley, North American hops, crisp clean water and

yeast. “We know you’ll love them,” says Brewmaster

Gavin Anderson. “From our family to yours.”

122

LONDON

Craft Brewery

1030 Elias Street (East of Dorinda)

MAP B p20: 39 548-888-ALES

(2537)

andersoncraftales.ca

Award-Winning Beers

The Anderson Family


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 a large and welcoming seasonal patio.

A locally-sourced and thoughtfully curated menu is served out of the inhouse

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.

The brewery is a strong community

force and recently celebrated its sixth

year of business. The team believes

in maintaining a family-friendly

environment and loves the social aspect

of the craft beer community. Hint: check

the social media channels for all the different taproom event calendar

updates, new launches, kitchen specials, and more.

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 created

space for 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

Friendly Bar & Retail Space

EatOA!

ever-growing number of

bars and restaurants.

LOCAL CRAFT BEER


Retail Store with Fun Swag,

Growlers & Cans To Go

Beer Flights & Tours Available

Group-Friendly Social Space

Overlooking the Brewery

Large Seasonal Patio

Delicious Beer-Friendly Food

Large Outdoor Patio Space

Steins, Pints & Flights!

A Quality Canadian-Built Brewery

localflavour.ca 123

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.

124

AN INSPIRED ESCAPE

ST. THOMAS

Craft Brewery,

Taproom & Retail

Store

130 Edward St. (at Currah Road)

MAP I p109: 40 519-631-1881

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.

Beer 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 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!


A tribute to Jumbo, a

historic St. Thomas icon

LOCAL CRAFT BEER

Small-batch Craft Brewing

Since 2008

Retail Store with Bottles &

Cans to Go

Beer Flights & Tours Available

Welcoming Taproom

Indoor Seating & Seasonal

Patio

Established in 2008

Seasonals & Limited Edition Beers

Brewery Tours & Tastings

localflavour.ca 125

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.

126

Brickhouse Brewpub Taproom

Upper Thames Brewing Co.

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

1. Upper Thames Brewing Co.

9-225 Bysham Park Drive

(at Landsdowne Ave.)

MAP D p77: 41 519-290-0053

upperthamesbrewing.ca

Food Truck Fridays

Live Music Saturdays

Brewery Tours & Retail Store

Available for Weddings &

Events

2. Brickhouse Brewpub

190 Fairway Rd (E of Vansittart)

MAP D p77: 42 519-290-5347

upperthamesbrewing.ca/

brewpub

Full Kitchen, Counter Service

Beer-Infused Pub Fare

24 Taps, Full Bar & Wine

Beer & Merch Retail Store

Upper Thames Brewery Taproom & Event Space

Brickhouse Brewpub

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.

Beer 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.


LOCAL CRAFT BEER

The Brickhouse Burger

Upper Thames Brewery Patio

localflavour.ca 127

Weathering Well

STORM STAYED BREWING CO.

With over four years of brewing in London, ON this neighbourhood hub

continues to create high-quality beer that’s as delicious as it is innovative.

The bright, spacious taproom and patio are welcoming spaces to spend

quality time catching up with friends, family, and fellow craft beer

enthusiasts. You’ll find plenty of beer styles available on draft and to go

from their retail shop fridge as well as cider and wine from select vendors.

128

LONDON

The Scene

Nestled between The Coves and Old South

neighbourhoods, Storm Stayed Brewing Co.

is a popular community-oriented craft brewery

with a welcoming, inclusive environment.

There’s a joyful sense of camaraderie

amongst the craft beer lovers who gather in

the modern, spacious taproom and on their

recently renovated patio. The brewery hosts

seasonal farmers’ markets, trivia, and other

events. They foster a sense of community

with large sharable tables that are great for

enjoying a bite and a brew. You’ll find friendly,

knowledgeable staff eager to welcome you,

your group of friends, or your family.

Beer Highlights

The brewers focus on hop-forward ales and fruited sours, along with a

core lineup of modern and traditional styles that range from crisp and

clean, malty and sweet, to dark

and roasty. The beer selection is

always thoughtfully considered

and expertly brewed. A range

of packaged products are

professionally designed and offer

excellent choices.

To keep things fun and

dynamic, they occasionally offer

beer cocktails, and beer slushies

on weekends in warmer months.

Recommendations include

Storm Stayed’s citrusy and hazy SUNBURST New England Pale Ale — now

at select LCBO stores — and PATINA Irish Red Ale with light toasty notes

and subtle caramel that perfectly match most foods.

Be sure not to miss their ongoing SHOOK Milkshake

Kettle Sour series which successfully balances massive

amounts of fruit with a tart base beer.

Food Highlights

At the time of writing, Storm Stayed is excited about an

upcoming new food program. Until then, visiting food

vendors provide fresh-grilled sausages, hamburgers,

fried chicken sandwiches, and other beer-friendly

Find SUNBURST

at local LCBOs


Community Events

Try Seasonal & Limited

Edition Beer On Draft

options. Whenever a food vendor is not present, outside

food is welcome inside the taproom or on the patio.

LOCAL CRAFT BEER

Craft Brewery &

Beer-Focused Food

169 Wharncliffe Rd. S. (at Bruce)

MAP B p20: 43 519-601-7829

stormstayed.com

Spacious Taproom & Patio

15+ Drafts on Tap

Beer to Go & Merchandise

Plenty of Parking

Bike Racks Available

Short Walk from Wortley

Village

2 Blocks from Hyland Cinema

Enjoy Your Beer on the Patio

Visit Friends in the Taproom

localflavour.ca 129

Taste the Good Times

BAYSIDE BREWING CO.

& BAYSIDE BREWPUB

Enjoy the best of summer in Erieau. Generous decks

offer a million dollar view of boating activity on

picturesque Rondeau Bay. Add a fresh cold brew and a

delicious meal, then sit back, swap some tall tales and

enjoy the ones you’re with. On Sundays, 3–7pm, live

music will ease you into the start of the week. Cheers!

130

Erieau

Craft Brewery

& Brewpub

970 Ross Lane

(off County Road 12))

MAP F p94: 44 519-676-8888

baysidebrewing.com

Large Waterfront Patio

Cold Craft Beer

Woodfired Pizzas

Lake Erie Yellow Perch

Live Music Sundays

The Scene

Located on Lake Erie’s beautiful Rondea Bay, Bayside Brewing Co. has

put the charming village of Erieau on the map of craft beer lovers. As the

world returns to a new sense of normalcy, Bayside Brewing and its integral

Bayside Brewpub are celebrating 10 years of operation. “Tough times don’t

last, tough teams do,” says owner and co-founder Nancy Cowan, noting how

many staff members stayed on

through two years of a roller

coaster of events, celebrations,

disappointments and triumphs.

The brewery and namesake

pub are in the historic Lakeside

Hotel, offering modern comforts

all year, with the view of the

lake the icing on the cake.

An expansive deck and patio

provide a relaxing atmosphere

and the perfect way to enjoy the

sights and sounds of summer.

Patio heaters extend the season and make a chilly evening cozy.

Beer Highlights

A slate of seven fan favourites offers something for everyone, and includes

Bayside’s flagship beer, Long Pond Lager, full of flavour with a light crisp

finish; award-winning Honey Cream Ale, with subtle earthy notes from locallysourced

honey; and the Orchard Cherry Lager, a perfect blend of sweet and

tart first brewed to celebrate the local Cherry Fest, a unique taste of Erieau.

Enjoy the bounty of the lake with some local Yellow Perch, served lightly

panko breaded. A traditional English-Style Beer-Battered Haddock and

Chips is also available yearround.

Both are served with

cole slaw and tartar sauce. The

woodfired pizza oven is a busy

crowd pleaser, turning out the

hearty Carnivore Classic as

well as a lighter Vegetarian

Pizza to die for. Or try The

Bayside Classic — chicken

breast, tomato, baby spinach,

basil pesto, garlic cream sauce

and mozzarella.


LOCAL CRAFT BEER

Gorgeous View of Rondeau Bay

Outstanding Pub Fare Year Round

Tours & Tastings Available

localflavour.ca 131

We Make Very

Different Beer

LONDON BREWING

London Brewing cares deeply about the quality of

their ingredients and the sustainability of their product.

They are one of few 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.

132

LONDON

Worker Owned

Organic Craft

Brewery & Taproom

521 Burbrook Place

(at Princess Ave.)

MAP B p20: 45 226-667-6363

londonbrewing.ca

The Scene

London Brewing is located in the

heart of Old East Village. The brewery

celebrates local ingredients and

sustainable practices throughout their

brewery. Enjoy the welcoming Taproom,

with snack food options, live music and

a full view of the brewing process. There

is both indoor and outdoor casual

seating including a newly renovated

heated patio and a fully-stocked Retail

Store. Check out their social media

accounts for details and updates on

events such as Euchre, Trivia, 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. Notable

flagship beers include:

• London Organic Lager, clean tasting

for hot summer days but complex

enough to be enjoyed all year long;

• Front Porch Organic Session IPA, a

bright, lively, light sessionable mosaic

IPA with subtle notes of juicy citrus

throughout, perfect for both casual and

dedicated craft beer drinkers.

Full Tasting Room with a

Brewing Process View

Fully Stocked Retail Store

Snack Food Options

Outdoor & Indoor Seating

Favourites & Special Releases

More certified organic brews

have been launched and are

available seasonally.

Working with local farmers

and maltsters is central to London

Brewing’s mission to be sustainable

and support Ontario’s farming

communities


LOCAL CRAFT BEER

Fully Stocked Retail Fridge

Welcome to the Taproom

localflavour.ca 133

SHAKESPEARE

Craft Brewery

& Taproom

2178 Line 34 (Hwy 7/8)

MAP E p83:

46 519-777-5469

OR 519-276-7638

shakespearebrewingcompany.ca

LONDON

True Ontario Taste

Well-stocked Bottle Shop

Cozy Taproom

Ample Free Parking

Seasonal Beer Garden

100% Ontario-grown Hops

Fresh Beer Brewed & Packed Onsite

Seasonal Beer Garden Seating

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

A Cozy Spot

the perfect space for a welcoming and

for a Beer

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 355ml cans. 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


Discover Your Favourite!

Zeus & Chinook hops.

134 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.


The Pub Bar

LOCAL CRAFT BEER

SIMCOE

Craft Beer & Farmto-Table

Restaurant

96 Norfolk Street South

MAP D p77: 47 519-428-2886

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 135

Local Wines

MAKE THIS

SUMMER

EPIC

Take a self-guided tour through

Windsor Essex’s wine country with the

EPIC Tasting Pass and sip the unique

flavours at 14 of Canada’s most

southern wineries.

EPICWINERIES.COM

Download

Now!

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 ninth

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.

140

PLYMPTON-

WYOMING

Winery

5547 Aberarder Line

(Hwy 11, just west of Hwy 21)

MAP F p94: 48 519-899-2479

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 innovative

techniques necessary to meet the challenges — and reap the

benefits — of the Huron Shores Wine Region. 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 comfortable summer patio

and the beautiful 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). Summer

Saturdays include live

music and Sunday Brunch is

available some weekends..

Alton Farms Estate wines

are available in the tasting

room, at many restaurants,

select lcbos, the Bayfield,

Brights Grove, Komoka and

Petrolia farmers’ markets,

and can be ordered online.


LOCAL WINES

Most Wines Ontario vqa

Tasting Room & Tours

Available

Seasonal Patio

Saturday Summer Music

Check FB for Special Events

Available for Private Events

Trails for Hiking & CC Skiing

The Rewards for Innovation

Wide Variety of Local VQA Wines

Welcoming Tasting Room

localflavour.ca 141

Patience is the Root

of Good Taste ...

142

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.

HARROW

Winery & Farm-to-

Table Dining

533 County Road 50 East

in the hamlet of Oxley

MAP G p99: 49 519-738-3264

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 wines that include Riesling, Chardonnay,

Auxerrois, Bianca, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah,

Pinot Noir, and sparklers Lucky Blue and Enchanté. 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

and pickerel from Lake Erie. Chef creates enticing lunch entrées that are full of

flavour. Remember to save room

for the Crème Brûlée! Other

recommendations include:

• Lake Erie Yellow Perch and

Pickerel with house-cut fries,

Oxley slaw and tartar;

• Sticky Duck Wings, with chili

honey, crushed peanuts and

bread & butter jalapeños;

• Freshly Shucked Oysters,

with lemon, house mignonette

or fresh horseradish.


Small-Batch Wines

LOCAL WINES

Wine Shop — certified

sustainable

Wine Tastings Daily

Restaurant Open Year Round

Beautiful Outdoor Gardens

Outdoor Dining on Patios

Eco-friendly & Sustainable Farming

Fresh Local Menu Options

Inviting Indoor & Outdoor Spaces

localflavour.ca 143

A Wine Destination

Paradise!

SPRUCEWOOD SHORES

ESTATE WINERY

Siblings Tanya (Winemaker) and Steve Mitchell (Sales

& Marketing) have been crafting wines for 16 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.

144

AMHERSTBURG

Winery &

Event Centre

7258 County Road 50 West

(just East of Holiday Beach)

MAP G p99: 50 519-738-9253

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

for 2020’s vintage, available now),

Sweet Select Riesling, and Cabernet

Merlot (Lady in Red) are also available

at the lcbo. A mulled wine — Warm ’n

Cozy — is 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

mind-blowing wines of excellent

quality can be opened now but have

great aging potential and will develop

even more complexity in 5–7 years.


wine styles — all available at the winery

store. Sprucewood Shores Pinot Grigio and

Dry Riesling (both Silver Medal Winners

Beach

Glass Wines

LOCAL WINES

Pinot Grigio

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 145

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.

146

HARROW PELEE ISLAND

& KINGSVILLE

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 experience the taste of “vine to wine”; shop for

your favourite wines, apparel, culinary tools and gifts; enjoy the sunshine

and live entertainment on

the patio 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,

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 Pelee Island 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. If you plan to stay the night, plan in advance.

An inn, motels, cottage rentals and camping are available.

Wine Highlights

Pelee Island Winery offers a diverse selection of approachable and awardwinning

wines that will exceed your expectations. The winery also prides

itself on producing exceptional wines in an ecologically-conscious manner.

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

strict sustainable

vineyard practice and

Ontario Sustainable

Daily Tastings


Enjoy a bit of “Island Time”

Winegrowing standards

in all of its operations.

LOCAL WINES

Winery & Vineyard

1. PELEE ISLAND PAVILION

20 East West Road,

Pelee Island

MAP G p99: 51 519-724-2469

2. PELEE ISLAND WINERY

455 Seacliff Drive,

Kingsville

MAP G p99: 52 519-733-6551

1-800-597-3533

peleeisland.com

Canada’s Southernmost

Winery

Complimentary Tastings

Winery Pavilion Tours

Banquet Hall & Private Rooms

Seasonal Patio

Dine Alfresco

Daily Tours at Both Locations

Pavilion Pit Stop

localflavour.ca 147

Savour the Schatz

Wein Experience

SCHATZ WINERY

In an idyllic location halfway between Grand Bend

and Bayfield, steps from the Lake Huron shore, Schatz

Winery is one of the latest developments at the esteemed

Hessenland Inn. “Schatz” is a German term of endearment

and a nod to the proud heritage that infuses every aspect of

the Hessenland experience. The “weins” — and the winery

itself — are a reflection of a love of the land and of family.

Long Table Vineyard Dinners

148

ST. JOSEPH

The Scene

The iconic Hessenland

tower — featured on the

Schatz Winery logo — offers

a panoramic viewing deck

and winding tower staircase

for the perfect vantage point

to take in breathtaking views

of the vineyard, gardens and

venue spaces below, all within

a short walk to the Lake Huron shoreline. Hessenland Inn (see a full profile

on pages 88–89) offers Feast ON-certified cuisine, accommodations and

amenities that reflect traditional German heritage with a modern touch.

Lovers of the grape will appreciate the

new Winery Boutique and winery tours

and tastings, with the option of lunch or

dinner in the restaurant or vineyard.

Wine Highlights

While inspiration for a vineyard at

Hessenland bloomed many moons

ago when Frank and Liz Ihrig spent a

semester in the south of France, the blue

clay soil in St. Joseph and the unique

offerings of the Lake Huron breeze have

shaped the terroir for Schatz Winery.

Learning from their neighbours and

mentors from across Niagara, Prince

Edward County and Huron Shores wine regions, the Ihrigs, with family and

friends, hand planted a five-acre micro-vineyard in 2015. Going relatively small

with hybrid vines that are resilient and healthy in this agriculturally rich farm land

captures the Schatz Winery mantra — “quality over quantity” — and the results

have been gratifying. Implementing time-honoured traditions in conjunction with

innovations, they carried out their first

harvest in 2017 and now offer a growing

lineup of Schatz vintages.

Each wine is named to tie into the

history of Hessenland and surrounding

area or after family members. The

popular Schatz house wines are simply

St. Joe’s White and St. Joe’s Red.

Schatz Winery recently welcomed

Consultant Derek Barnett

and Owner Frank Ihrig


Owner Frank Ihrig & Winery

Manager Brandon Chaffe

Brandon Chaffe to their leadership

team, as Winery Manager, and look

forward to further growth.

LOCAL WINES

Winery, Inn &

Restaurant

72981 Bluewater Highway

(Hwy 21)

MAP E p87: 53 519-236-7707

or 1-866 -543-7736

hessenland.com

Steps from Lake Huron

Wine Tours & Tastings

Enjoy All Hessenland Inn

Amenities

Wine Boutique

Gift Packs Available

Current Lineup Highlights

The Wine Boutique

Owners Frank & Liz Ihrig

localflavour.ca 149

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.

152

THEDFORD

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


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!


Apple Orchard,

Cider House &

Estate Winery

8169 Kennedy Line

(East of Hwy 79)

MAP F p94: 54 519-296-5558

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 153

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

Let’s Patio

AMHERSTBURG

Craft Distillery,

Retail Store &

Restaurant

7781 Howard Avenue (Hwy 9)

MAP G p99: 55 519-726-1111

drinkwolfhead.com

WOLFHEAD DISTILLERY

Voted #1 on TripAdvisor! 5x Winner of The Art of Cocktail Award!

Owners Tom & Sue Manherz with Larry Girard, inspired by the

history of rumrunning in the local area, turned that interest into

a premium craft distillery and restaurant. A craftsman operation,

Wolfhead Distillery produces unique flavours of Whisky, Vodka and

Gin 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 cozy industrial restaurant, featuring a wildly

delicious roadhouse menu with locally sourced ingredients and infused

spirits. Recommendations include the Garlic Fried Linguini — fresh

mushrooms, green olives, banana peppers, garlic, Vodka, parmesan, feta

and green olives (gluten free available). Or try the Maple Bacon Burger —

an 8 oz handmade burger topped with cheddar & bacon and finished with

Giffin’s Whisky Barrel Aged

Maple Syrup and Wolfhead

Whisky BBQ Sauce.

A spacious seasonal

patio welcomes guests,

with local entertainment on

weekends and an inviting

retail store with Wolfhead

products and a selection

of apparel and gifts. Public

tours and tastings are

available weekends, 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, River’s End Gin and Kavi. Popular flavoured spirits include

Coffee Whisky Liqueur, Grapefruit Vodka and Banana Caramel Vodka.

Must-tries are-the Grapefruit Vodka Cosmo & Essex County Mule. Wolfhead

Premium Spirits can be

found in select LCBOs

in Ontario, Michigan 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 new

releases and events.



Public Tours Available

Farm-to-Table Dining

Available for Private Parties

Dog-Friendly Patio Area

Destination Craft Distillery

Tours & Tastings Available

Make Reservations on Open Table

localflavour.ca 155

Farmers’

Markets

LONDON

Farmers’ Market


MAP B p20: 56 519-439-3921

coventmarket.com

Taste the

Market Experience

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, farm-fresh

quality can be found

daily. The Market

provides some of the

city’s best selection

of organic foods,

award-winning meats

(Chris’ Country Cuts and Mark’s Fine Meats), ethnic foods from around

the globe (over 40 vendors) and the largest assortment of cheese (thanks

to Glenda Smith) in Southwest Ontario. Don’t miss the authentic French

Bakery offering the real French experience through a range of classic and

regional baked goods by Pastry Culture. You can also find chocolatiers,

market-roasted coffees and a wide selection of seasonal fresh-cut

flowers. You’ll be amazed by the variety of ethnic, gourmet and specialty

foods you can purchase, showcasing the multicultural diversity of our

market community.

Outdoor Farmers’ Market

Join us every Saturday from

Easter Weekend to December for

our outdoor Farmers’ Market on

the Market Square. Listen to the

sounds of local musicians from the

London Arts Live program while

you share the passion for quality

food directly with local farmers,

growers, and producers. The

vendors selling here “grow it, raise

it, bake it, or make it!” Experience

the taste of local. And find that

there is nothing better!


FARMERS’ MARKETS

Year-round Culinary Hub in

Downtown London

Retailers, Restaurants &

Cultural Events

Underground Parking

Outdoor Farmers’ Market

In the Market Square

Winter Indoor Farmers’

Market

Upstairs on the Mezzanine

The Original Market Building &

Square, by Paul Peel, 1883

Covent Garden Market & Square

was rebuilt in 1999

localflavour.ca 157

Meet Me at the Market!

Covent Garden Market also houses several excellent

restaurants, such as Olive R. Twists, Waldo’s on King,

and Tanakaya. The outdoor Market Square patio offers

beautiful city views and hosts a number of different cultural

festivals and events, making this space a community hub

for all to enjoy. The Market celebrates arts, culture and

diversity and that is shown all throughout the building,

from the indoor upstairs Mezzanine to the outdoor Market

Square. The Market is full of enticing surprises, adding an

element of discovery to the consistent appeal and bounty of

Covent Garden Market!

Cooking Classes

& So Much More!

The market also offers free cooking

classes featuring local chefs and seasonal

foods! Classes are held every Saturday

from March to December, upstairs in the

Market Kitchen. For more info, current

news, recipes, and other seasonal

information, visit coventmarket.com and

sign up for the weekly newsletters.

158 localflavour.ca

FARMERS’ MARKETS Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide

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—SAT

SUN

WE HAVE FREE UNDERGROUND PARKING:

1 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

Stacey McDonald

Chris McDonell

Culinary Advisor & Writer

Bryan Lavery wrote many of the editorial contributions and business

profiles for an earlier edition of this guide. We have adapted and

updated some of that information in this issue. Any errors are ours alone.

Publisher

Chris McDonell

Photography

OSW Media Library — We made use of this great resource from Ontario’s

Southwest, a library of images available for use in promoting our region.

swotc.ca/visual-assets

Steve Grimes — grimesphoto.com

Phong Tran — t5digital.com

Nick Lavery — laveryculinarygroup.ca

Thanks and credits to most of the businesses involved for providing

additional images for this guide.

Our cover image is from Grace, with a ricotta gnocchi with crispy pancetta,

scallions and crème fraîche in the foreground, and an apple tart with

turmeric ice cream.

Appreciation

Thanks for the assistance and support from the following people and

organizations:

Jen Moore, Ana Baxter and June Nussey from OSW

Ann Cormier from Eatdrink

Special thanks to Sue Gordon for incredible patience and support through

the past two years and particularly through the process of completing this

guide. Additional thanks to Isaac McDonell-Gordon for helping make the

homefront run more smoothly.

Published with assistance from the Province of Ontario

and Ontario’s Southwest

Copyright © 2022 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, OSW, 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.

a taste of student success

book your reservation today and

become part of the learning experience

519-452-4433

130 dundas st. downtown london

find out more at:

www.thechefstablefanshawe.ca

TASTE THe

Market

Experience!

130 King Street, London

Market Hours:

MON-SAT 8AM-6PM, Sun 11am-4pm

www.coventmarket.com

@coventgardenmarketcanada Covent Garden Market CanadA CoventMarket

Local Flavour Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide Volume 9

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