From farm to table, there is no better way to experience the bounty of a region than through its local restaurants. Niagara-on-the-Lake is no exception, with its fertile farmland and thriving wine industry making it a culinary destination in its own right. Here are five of the best local restaurants in NOTL that showcase the region's fresh, seasonal ingredients and innovative cuisine.
Treadwell Cuisine
Price: $$$
Cuisine: Seasonal Foods & Regional Wines
Treadwell Cuisine is a fine-dining establishment in Niagara-on-the-Lake that has gained a reputation for its farm-to-table philosophy. Chef Stephen Treadwell and his team have made a commitment to working closely with local farmers and producers to source the freshest ingredients available. This dedication to using only the highest quality, locally-sourced ingredients sets Treadwell apart from other restaurants in the area.
The menu at Treadwell Cuisine changes frequently to showcase the best of the region's seasonal ingredients. Guests can expect to find a range of dishes that are both creative and flavourful. The roasted beet salad with whipped goat cheese is a standout dish that exemplifies the restaurant's commitment to using fresh, local ingredients. The beets are roasted to perfection and served with creamy goat cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Another popular dish at Treadwell is the grilled pork chop with apple chutney. The pork chop is sourced from a local farm and is perfectly cooked to retain its juiciness and flavour. The apple chutney adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savoury flavour of the pork.
For seafood lovers, the lobster risotto is a must-try dish. The lobster is sourced from the nearby waters of the Atlantic Ocean and is cooked to perfection. The creamy risotto is infused with the delicate flavour of the lobster and is topped with shaved Parmesan cheese.
One of the highlights of dining at Treadwell Cuisine is the extensive wine list that features some of the best vintages from the Niagara region. The restaurant has established relationships with many of the local wineries and is able to offer guests a wide range of wine pairings to complement their meal.
How to get there:
114 Queen St, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0
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The Gate House
Price: $$-$$$
Cuisine: Canadian
The Gate House is a cozy and charming restaurant located in a historic building that dates back to 1824. The restaurant's intimate and inviting atmosphere is created by the warm fireplace and exposed brick walls that give it a unique character. The restaurant prides itself on serving fresh, locally sourced cuisine, and its commitment to supporting local farmers and producers is evident in every dish on the menu.
The menu at The Gate House features a range of seasonal dishes that celebrate the best of Niagara's ingredients. From fresh salads and hearty soups to succulent steaks and seafood, there is something for everyone. The standout dish on the menu is the Gate House Burger, made with locally sourced beef and served with crispy fries. The chefs also offer vegetarian and gluten-free options, ensuring that all dietary needs are catered for.
The Gate House's commitment to using locally sourced ingredients means that the menu changes frequently to reflect the season's bounty. The chefs work tirelessly to create innovative dishes that showcase the freshest and most flavorful ingredients available. Every dish is made with care and attention to detail, and the result is a menu that is both exciting and delicious.
The restaurant's cozy interior and warm atmosphere make it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. The historic building creates a unique ambiance, and the friendly and attentive staff ensure that every guest feels welcome and comfortable. With its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, delicious cuisine, and inviting atmosphere, The Gate House is a true gem of Niagara-on-the-Lake's dining scene.
How to get there:
142 Queen St, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0
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Peller Estates and Winery
Price: $$$
Cuisine: Farm-to-table, Winery
Peller Estates and Winery is an iconic winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake that has been crafting award-winning wines for over 50 years. But, it is not just a winery, as it also houses an exceptional restaurant that offers an unparalleled dining experience. The restaurant is situated amidst the stunning vineyards of Peller Estates and boasts a farm-to-table menu that celebrates the seasonal produce grown on the estate.
The restaurant's menu is curated by Chef Jason Parsons, who is known for his innovative and creative use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes frequently to reflect the season's bounty, ensuring that every dish is made with the freshest ingredients. The farm-to-table concept is taken to new heights here, with a focus on using ingredients that are grown on the estate itself. This ensures that the dishes are not only delicious but also sustainable and environmentally friendly.
The restaurant's dining room is equally impressive, with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer breathtaking views of the vineyards and the surrounding landscape. The décor is elegant and sophisticated, with modern touches that add a touch of luxury to the dining experience. Guests can choose to sit in the main dining room or on the outdoor patio, which is open during the summer months and offers stunning views of the estate.
One of the highlights of dining at Peller Estates and Winery is the wine pairing experience. The restaurant offers an extensive wine list that features some of the estate's best vintages, including ice wine, which is a specialty of the Niagara region. The knowledgeable sommeliers are on hand to guide guests through the wine pairing process, ensuring that each dish is perfectly complemented by a carefully selected wine.
Peller Estates and Winery is committed to sustainability and supporting local farmers, and this is evident in every aspect of the restaurant. The estate is home to a herb garden, greenhouse, and apiary, which supply the restaurant with fresh ingredients. The restaurant also features a state-of-the-art kitchen that utilizes the latest technology to ensure that the dishes are cooked to perfection.
How to get there:
290 John St E, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0
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Ruffino's Pasta Bar and Grill
Price: $-$$
Cuisine: Italian
Ruffino's Pasta Bar and Grill is a popular Italian restaurant located in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake. The restaurant has gained a reputation as a must-visit spot for lovers of authentic Italian cuisine, thanks to its commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create delicious and flavourful dishes.
One of the standout features of Ruffino's is its focus on handmade pasta, which is made fresh daily in-house. This ensures that the pasta is of the highest quality and perfectly cooked every time. In addition to pasta dishes, the restaurant also serves up a range of wood-fired pizzas, which are cooked to perfection in a traditional Italian oven.
The menu at Ruffino's features a range of classic Italian dishes, as well as some unique creations that are exclusive to the restaurant. Some standout dishes on the menu include the fettuccine alfredo with chicken, which is a creamy and indulgent dish that is sure to satisfy any pasta lover's cravings. The lasagna Bolognese is another popular dish that features layers of fresh pasta, meat sauce, and melted cheese.
To complement the delicious food, Ruffino's also boasts an extensive wine list featuring a range of local and Italian wines. Whether you're looking for a crisp white to pair with your pasta or a bold red to complement your steak, the knowledgeable staff can help you select the perfect wine to suit your tastes.
The restaurant itself is warm and inviting, with a cozy dining room that is perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. The walls are adorned with vintage Italian posters and rustic décor, giving the space a charming and authentic feel.
In addition to its regular menu, Ruffino's also offers catering services for weddings, corporate events, and private parties. Whether you're looking for a full-service catering package or just a few dishes to complement your event, the team at Ruffino's can work with you to create a customized menu that suits your needs and budget.
How to get there:
242 Mary St, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0
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Cannery Restaurant
Price: $$$
Cuisine: Steakhouse
Located in an old fruit cannery, the Cannery Restaurant is a truly unique dining experience that is not to be missed while in Niagara-on-the-Lake. The restaurant's historic location, and stunning views of the Niagara River make it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion.
But the real star of the show at the Cannery is the food. The menu is inspired by the region's fresh, seasonal ingredients, with a focus on locally raised meats and artisanal cheeses. The restaurant works closely with local farmers and producers to source the freshest ingredients, which are then transformed into creative and flavourful dishes by the talented kitchen team.
Some standout dishes on the menu include the roasted Ontario duck breast with fig compote, the braised lamb shank with root vegetables, and the seared Atlantic scallops with cauliflower puree. The Cannery also offers a range of vegetarian and gluten-free options, ensuring that there is something for everyone.
To complement the delicious food, the Cannery also boasts an impressive wine list featuring some of the best local and international vintages. The knowledgeable staff are always happy to make recommendations and help guests find the perfect pairing for their meal.
How to get there:
48 John St W, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0
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Whether you're looking for a romantic night out, a family celebration, or a special occasion, the Cannery Restaurant is sure to impress with its stunning location, delicious food, and excellent wine selection.
If you're planning a trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake, make sure to add these farm-to-table restaurants to your itinerary. And to make the most of your experience, consider staying at Cellar House, a charming space that is just a short distance from these hidden culinary gems. Book your stay today to discover the best of Niagara-on-the-Lake's culinary scene.