LOCAL FLAVOUR Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide Volume 10

CHATHAM-KENT • ELGIN • HALDIMAND • HURON • LONDON • MIDDLESEX 

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

Local Flavour 

SOUTHWEST ONTARIO 

CULINARY GUIDE 

Volume 10 

Restaurants • Specialty Shops & Services • Farmers’ Markets 

Craft Beer • Local Wine • Craft Distilleries 

THE 

WHERE TO 

EAT& 

DRINK 

GUIDE 

eatdrink 

The LOCAL Food & Drink Magazine 

localflavour.ca

CHATHAM-KENT • ELGIN • HALDIMAND • HURON• LONDON • MIDDLESEX 

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

Local Flavour 


CULINARY GUIDE 

Restaurants • Specialty Shops & Services • Farmers’ Markets 

Craft Beer • Local Wine • Craft Distilleries 

Volume 10 

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

CONTENTS 

INTRODUCTION 

4 Southwest Ontario Is Cooking with Local Flavour! 

16 Southwest Ontario Map 

16 How to Use This Guide 

LONDON 

Restaurants 

26 David’s Bistro 

28 Abruzzi Ristorante 

30 The River Room / Rhino Lounge 

32 Craft Farmacy 

34 The Church Key Bistro-Pub 

36 Garlic’s of London 

38 Blackfriars Bistro & Catering 

40 Grace 

42 Taverna 13thirtyone 

44 The Chef’s Table 

46 T.G.’s Addis Ababa Restaurant 

48 The Tea Lounge 

50 Willie’s Café 

52 Yasmine’s 

56 Pasto’s Grill 

57 Katana Kafé & Grill 

58 Fellini Koolini’s / The Runt Club 

59 Joe Kool’s 

60 Ironwood Kitchen + Bar 

61 Waldo’s On King Bistro and Wine Bar 

Specialty Shops & Services 

64 The Pristine Olive Tasting Bar 

66 Marshall’s Pasta 

68 Blackfriars Emporio 

70 Grace Bodega 

72 Mamasim 

74 Churis Bread 

76 Hey, Cupcake! 

77 Jill’s Table

MIDDLESEX 

82 The Clock Tower 

84 Fat Olive 

86 Heeman’s 

OXFORD 

92 SixThirtyNine 

94 Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese 

96 Early Bird Coffee 

HALDIMAND 

100 Twisted Lemon 

HURON 

104 Eddington’s of Exeter 

106 Benmiller Inn & Spa 

108 White Squirrel Golf Club 

SARNIA-LAMBTON 

114 F.I.N.E. A Restaurant 

116 Pinery Market 

LOCAL CRAFT BEER 

132 Toboggan Brewing Co. 

134 Anderson Craft Ales 

136 London Brewing 

138 Upper Thames Brewing Co. 

139 Brickhouse Brewpub 

140 Shakespeare Brewing Co 

141 The Blue Elephant Craft Brew House 

LOCAL WINE 

146 Alton Farms Estate Winery 

148 Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery 

CRAFT DISTILLERIES & CIDERIES 

152 Twin Pines Orchards & Cider House 

155 Wolfhead Distillery 

FARMERS’ MARKETS 

157 Covent Garden Market 

160 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS 

WINDSOR-ESSEX- 

PELEE ISLAND 

120 World of Flavour 

CHATHAM-KENT 

124 Cheers to Chatham-Kent! 

ELGIN 

126 Experience the Flavours

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 LOCAL INTRODUCTION FLAVOUR: Southwest Southwest Ontario Ontario Culinary Guide

INTRODUCTION localflavour.ca 5

For many, the upheavals caused by a global 

pandemic have had a lasting impact. We are not 

quite through this tumultuous time yet. Prices 

remain high — we all see this every time we 

walk into any grocery store — and we know 

that every business continues to face multiple 

challenges finding the professional staff they 

need to maintain their lofty standards. That is just 

the reality. Yet upon a closer look, one can argue 

there are as many optimistic signs as there are 

troubling ones. 

Immersed as we are in the 

local culinary world, we are still 

amazed when we gather so 

many creative enterprises into 

a guide like this. Every profile, 

every page, whets our appetite 

for our next culinary adventure. 

As this publication goes to print, 

we have just felt the impact of 

forest fire smoke on our ability 

to enjoy the outdoors, but the 

pent up energy for travel and 

exploration seems unabated. 

It’s a beautiful world and we want to enjoy it! 

The following pages will hearten your culinary 

spirit. We lost some wonderful restaurants and 

culinary businesses in recent years, and that is 

to be lamented. But you will be glad to see that 

some of your favourites have been revitalized by 

the need to dig deep into the well of creativity 

and are now stronger than ever. It is also 

wonderful to see new faces, new concepts, new 

products, new vintages, new beers ... The list 

goes on in every corner of Southwest Ontario, 

and it is inspiring. 

Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery 

Chatham Farmers’ Market 

The Clock Tower 

6 

LOCAL FLAVOUR: Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide

Forest City 

Culinary Experiences 

& 

Gastronomic Tasting 

Experiences 

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

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

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. 

forestcityculinaryexperiences.ca 

519-280-7565 

ethicalgourmet@yahoo.com 

Bring Your 

Camera, Curiosity & 

Inner Gastronome!

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 everchanging 

mandates and lockdowns, while 

simultaneously dealing with deep concerns 

for their staff and patrons. 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 customers is 

these tremendous challenges sparked so 

I must go forward where I have 

never been instead of backwards 

where I have. 

— Winnie the Pooh 

Mamasim 

Oxford County Back Road 

8 


Paddle your own canoe. 

— Anonymous 

much innovation and genius. It is true that 

“necessity is the mother of invention,” and a 

number of clever improvements — and even 

new businesses — have been birthed. You will 

find plenty of evidence of that in these pages. 

The Great Canadian Hideaway 

Wolfhead Distillery 

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 have 

always paid a premium for this authenticity, 

and today you likely can 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. You’ll find inspiring 

INTRODUCTION 

localflavour.ca 9

independent businesses 

and producers of handcrafted, 

small-batch, madefrom-scratch 

food and 

beverages around every 

corner while exploring 

Southwest Ontario’s vibrant 

gastronomic scene. 

Hospitality and 

the culinary arts are 

integral aspects of Southwest Ontario’s 

identity. Exceptional restaurants, talented 

homegrown and internationally trained chefs, 

boutique shops, markets and gourmet food 

and drink retailers make this a “must visit” 

destination for those seeking authentic 

culinary experiences. An eclectic mix of 

socially-conscious professionals in agricultural 

and artisanal production bring the latest in 

epicurean innovation to the table. Today’s 

modern restaurants are about feasting, sharing, 

authenticity, embracing quality ingredients and 

celebrating the craft and tradition of farmers, 

chefs, and local winemakers, craft brewers, 

cideries, and distilleries. 

Whether you’re dining 

in one of the chef-driven, 

farm-to-table restaurants, 

sipping wine at a vineyard, 

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 

The Church Key 

Grace 

Pinafore Park, St. Thomas 

10 


eflect 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 

ethically-sourced coffee beans. Tea drinkers 

are equally well served by the outstanding 

coffeehouses, tea lounges, restaurants and 

culinary retailers all around 

the region. 

Uncork a new 

winemaking world by 

visiting 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 

INTRODUCTION 

Twin Pines Orchards & Cider House 

David’s Bistro 

Craft Farmacy 

localflavour.ca 11

A Dream Without a P lan 

Is Just a Wish 

www.7Seas2See.com 

7Seas2See Travel — a unique 

bespoke trip planning company 

that curates custom travel planning for individuals and 

small groups — is an independent affiliate of Trevello Travel, 

specializing in: 

Bucket List Travel 

Culinary & Wine 

Small Ship Cruising — Expedition, Luxury, River, 

Yachts and Barges 

Walking and Active 

Villas 

Visit www.7Seas2See.com to find out 

more about Diane’s travel planning process and 

how she can bring your Travel Dreams to life!

Time is our most precious commodity! 

Fly direct non-stop out of the Region of Waterloo 

International Airport on a private chartered flight with an 

elevated experience for these long weekend getaways. 

Taking reservations now. 

Go to 7Seas2See.com/Tours to sign up. 

Bermuda 

November 17-19, 2023 

Get away and do what you want! 

Golf, Spa, Shop, Fish ... 

Grand Cayman 

January 12-14, 2024 

During the Famous Cayman Cookout! 

Beach, Sun, Foodies Unite! 

Churchill, Manitoba 

February 9-11, 2024 

Northern Lights & Exclusive 

Tundra Dinner at Dan's Diner 

Turks & Caicos 

March 8-11, 2024 

Turquoise water, white sand beaches. 

All Inclusive Resorts, Private Villas or 

Yacht Charters. It’s up to you! 

Diane is a World Traveler — a professional Certified Travel Advisor 

with a 39-year travel career. She left her retail travel management 

position in 2015 to start her own travel company, set up intentionally 

to work from anywhere in the world with an 

internet connection. Named to the Elite Conde 

Nast Top Travel Specialist 2023 List and a 

Virtuoso Advisor, Diane is recognized as a Top 

Travel Specialist and a member of the world’s 

most prestigious by-invitation-only alliance of 

luxury and experiential travel professionals 

and suppliers. 

TICO #50026578

Life is better at the lake. 

— Anonymous 

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? It’s here! Look and 

you’ll see more and more opportunities 

to 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 take 

part in professionally guided experiences 

or workshops with an insider, tailored and customized 

to allow one-on-one and group interactions. Indulge 

all your senses by partaking in a hands-on experience 

with a craftsperson or a local culinary expert or take a 

self-guided tour along one of the many award-winning 

Canatara Beach, Sarnia 

Jill’s Table 

14 


culinary trails. Interactive experiences engage participants by involving 

artisans, cheesemakers, chocolatiers, craft brewers, winemakers, craft 

distillers, coffee roasters, tea sommeliers, chefs, farmers, 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! 

Of all the paths you take 

in life, make sure a few 

of them are dirt. 

— John Muir 

Benmiller Inn & Spa 

Elgin County Back Road 

INTRODUCTION 

localflavour.ca 15


Huron 

W 

N 

E 

LAKE HURON 

S 

Port Huron 

MICHIGAN 

Sarnia-Lambton 

Middlesex 

London 

Elgin 

Detroit 

Windsor 

LAKE ST CLAIR 

Chatham-Kent 

Windsor-Essex- 

Pelee Island 

3 

LAKE ERIE 

16

Guelph 

Toronto 

Stratford 

Shakespeare 

Kitchener 

Waterloo 

Cambridge 

Oxford 

Hamilton 

LAKE ONTARIO 

Niagara Falls 

Norfolk 

Simcoe 

Haldimand 

NEW YORK 

OHIO 

PENNSYLVANIA 

17

How to Use This Guide 

IF you are looking at the digital guide: 

The guide contains a number of useful QR codes but those have 

been converted to direct links that you can simply click on. 

There is no need to scan the QR code. Just click! 

QR CODES 

The BLUE QR codes connect you to the location with Google 

Maps, the method we thought easiest for you to get point-bypoint 

instructions from your present location, or for planning 

day trips or longer road trips from other locations. 

The RED QR codes connect you to specific information from 

the business you are looking at, often an online menu or link 

to let you shop online. 

PHONE NUMBERS 

Phone numbers are also “click to call” links. 

Follow the prompts for an easy and direct connection. 

WEBSITES 

The website address is a live link to that business site. 

Just click on it. LONDON 

SOCIAL MEDIA 

You can also click on the social media icons to go directly to 

that business’ page Classic in the relevant Bistrowebsite. 

432 Richmond Street 

(at Carling) 

: Sous Chef Rick Hunt; 

nger Andrew Woolcox- 

David Chapman; Chef 

nan; Natalie Chapman 

nerated downtown 

ch bistro motif, 

red walls, perfectly 

ice and attention to 

Scan or Click 

Scan or Click 

MAP LINK 

519-667-0535 

davidsbistro.ca 

Scan or Click 

MAP LINK 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

PHONE ORIENTATION 

Hold your phone “landscape” for a 2-page 

spread view or “portrait” to see larger single 

pages. You can flip back and forth immediately 

if you want to zoom in for closer looks or move 

through pages quickly. 

Touch the online guide and note the three dots 

in the upper right hand corner. Click on the 

dots; this is your PREFERENCES window. You 

will see that you can choose to have change 

pages by having them roll across the screen or 

you can swipe. You can also choose whether 

the page move from side to side or up and 

down. A little experimentation will help you 

decide what is more comfortable for you. 

great 

unt and 

MENU LINK 

They 

nal French-inspired 

c country cuisine 

ting their 18 philosophy 

ity, seasonality and 

Links to click in the digital guide 

Classic French Bistro Fare 

Prix Fixe Menu Changes Daily 

Excellent Wine List, Available 

by Glass or Bottle 

Pre-order Heat-and-Serve LOCAL FLAVOUR: Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide 

Meals for Sunday Pickup

IF you are looking at a print copy: 

This guide functions perfectly well without digital 

enhancements, with all the information, addresses and 

phone numbers you need to lead you on an exciting culinary 

adventure though Southwest Ontario. We understand that 

sometimes “less is more” and you’ve got everything you really 

need. Enjoy and bon appetit! 

However, you will find a smartphone can be a helpful tool 

to enhance your experience and make this guide even more 

useful. We have added QR codes throughout the guide to give 

you point-to-point directions, access to online menus and 

more information about each business. 

Most smartphones today have a built-in QR Code Reader. 

Try this first but some models may require you to download a 

free QR Reader app. 

The process is very simple: 

1 

Open your 

camera and 

point your 

phone at the 

QR code 

2 

Wait for the 

camera to 

recognize 

and scan the 

QR code 

3 

Click the 

banner or 

notification 

when it 

appears on 

your screen 

4 

The info 

associated 

with the QR 

code will 

automatically 

load 

INTRODUCTION 

localflavour.ca 19

IF you want direct access to the digital guide: 

SCAN HERE 

➜ 

or go to: localflavour.ca 

and click on the link 

Amenities Legend 

You will see some of the following icons under the social media icons 

on most profiles: 

— Licenced 

— Wheelchair Accessible 

— Seasonal Patio Available 

— Take-Out Available 

— Hands-On Experiences Available 

(Generally requiring advance booking) 

— Accommodations Available 


The website contains more than this guide, and is worth exploring! 

There are links to the digital guide, and profiles are easily shared, and 

are fully accessible by smartphone in an easy-to-read format. 

20 


Sip. Savour. Taste. Tour. 

Switch up your roadtrip routine to a place overflowing with 

shorelines, nature, wineries, craft beverages and farm-to-table 

fabulousness. Combine some of Canada’s most productive 

farmland and fresh water with a generous helping of 

passionate food & drink producers and talented chefs... 

...you get Ontario’s Southwest! 

Start planning your next delicious adventure today! 

OntariosSouthwest.com 

INTRODUCTION 

localflavour.ca 21

London 

Exceptional restaurants, talented homegrown 

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. 

22

London 

Restaurants 

23

Your 

tastebuds 

will thank 

you. 

Come for the food, stay for 

the epic experience. 

to learn more visit: 

londontourism.ca

DAVID’S BISTRO 

London’s Oasis 

for Food Lovers! 

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 Frenchinspired 

cooking in a charming 

heritage building setting 

makes for a memorable dining 

experience. 

David’s recipe for success — good food, good 

wine and good company! — is time-tested yet 

always evolving. 

The Wine Board 

Apple Citrus Salad 

Lamb Loin 

Scallops 

26 


LONDON 

Classic Bistro 


(at Carling) 

Scan or Click 

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 continues to deliver great 

food with his long time Sous Chef Rick Hunt and 

Garde Manger Andrew Woolcox-Howe. 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. 

The chalkboard prix-fixe 

menu changes 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 can also be 

pre-ordered for Sunday pickup 

and delivery to heat and serve 

at home. The menu changes 

weekly. 

LONDON RESTAURANTS 

L–R: Sous Chef Rick Hunt; 

Garde Manger Andrew Woolcox- 

Howe; David Chapman; Chef 

Elvis Drennan; Natalie Chapman 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

MAP LINK 

519-667-0535 

davidsbistro.ca 

Classic French Bistro Fare 

Prix Fixe Menu Changes Daily 

Excellent Wine List, Available 

by Glass or Bottle 

Pre-order Heat-and-Serve 

Meals for Sunday Pickup 

& Delivery (Menu Changes 

Weekly) 

Mussels 

localflavour.ca 27

➤ 

ABRUZZI 

Italian Inspired ... 

Locally Focused 

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. 

The Bar 

White Chocolate Bavarois 

with Strawberry Rhubarb Jelly, Coated 

In Dark Chocolate 

Grilled Grapes & Burrata — dry 

cured coppa, grilled baguette, 

balsamic glaze, olive oil, Slegers 

organic basil 

➤ 

Duck Breast — braised duck 

tortellini, charred broccolini, Shogun 

maitake mushrooms, broccoli puree, 

duck jus 

28 


LONDON 

Italian-inspired 

Farm-to-Table 

119 King Street 

(at Talbot) 

Scan or Click 

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. 


Abruzzi won a Gold Medal Innovation Award from Food Day 

Canada for a consistent commitment to using local ingredients. 

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. 

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. 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

MAP LINK 

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 

119 

Lon 

51 

ww 

➤ 

Pistachio Crusted 

Lamb Loin — Sungold 

organic green garlic 

purée, grilled local 

asparagus, housemade 

braised lamb, sweet pea 

and ricotta cannelloni 

➤ Grilled Octopus — 

cilantro & lime puree, 

lemon potato & olive 

salad, organic seedlings 


localflavour.ca 29

THE RIVER ROOM 

Café & Private Dining 

RHINO LOUNGE 

Bakery & Coffee Shoppe 

Inspired Cuisine at 

The Forks 

of the Thames 

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. 

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. 

A sophisticated 

design sensibility 

is reflected in the 

cuisine the stylish 

and relaxed interior. 

The ambience is 

warm and friendly, 

with glass, leather 

and linen textural 

elements. 

30 


LONDON 

Contemporary 

Casual Fine 

Dining & Café 

421 Ridout Street North 

(within Museum London) 

Scan or Click 


The talented culinary team delivers well-executed features, 

including the signature East Coast Lobster Roll and a variety 

of sharing plates, entréesized 

salads like the perennial 

favourite River Room Cobb 

Salad, Napoli-style pizza, 

and mains from Seared Sea 

MENU LINK 

Smoked Salmon 

& Potato Latkes 

The River Room’s prix 

fixe Brunch Menu 

features a dozen dishes, 

including a classic Eggs 

Benedict 

Scan or Click 

or Belgian 

Waffles 

cooked to 

order. 


Scallops to Pan Roasted 

Tuscan Salmon or Crispy 

Skinned Spatchcock Hen. 

Lemon Tart with Raspberry Purée 

Über Pastry Chef Michele 

Lenhardt raises desserts 

at both locations to a 

new level. Try the River 

Room’s Chocolate Bomb 

or Seasonal Crostada 

and the popular Cronuts 

at the Rhino Lounge, with 

superb coffee, espresso, 

cappuccino and lattes, 

as well as vegan Mac ’n’ 

Cheese, Sausage Rolls, 

Cheesecake and Dutchies. 

MAP LINK 

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 

Fresh Pastries, Cronuts, 

Donuts and More 

localflavour.ca 31

CRAFT FARMACY 

Dispensing Deliciousness 

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.” 

Roasted Half Chicken 




Confit of Duck with Pork Belly 

➤ 

32 

Blackboard Menu Updated Daily 


LONDON 

Craft Beer & 

Oyster Bar 

449 Wharncliffe Road S 

(N of Baseline) 

Scan or Click 

The Scene 

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 

bentwood-style chairs. There is private event space with 

room for 40 on the second floor. 


Chef and co-owner Andrew Wolwowicz is a local pioneer of 

the ethical farm-to-table movement. He cooks with skill and 

dedication with a talented team of kitchen professionals. 

Dishes are progressive and rustic in style, featuring highquality 

ingredients crafted from local, regionspecific 

and specialty products, and executed with 

aptitude, innovation and attention to detail. 

A raw bar features a fresh Shellfish Tower, 

Shrimp 

Cocktail and 

a changing 

selection of six to nine 

East Coast oyster 

varieties with fresh 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

horseradish, mignonette 

sauce and hot sauce. 

MAP LINK 

519-914-2699 

@craftfarmacy 

London’s Premier Oyster Bar 

Extensive Craft Beer 

Selection 

Craft Cocktails 

Fireplace & Welcoming 

Ambience 

Ample Free Parking 

Private Rooms Available 

➤ 

Executive Chef 

Andrew Wolwowicz 

with puffball mushroom 


➤ Seafood Tower 

and Oysters 

localflavour.ca 33

THE CHURCH KEY 

Bistro-Pub 

Craft Beer & Modern 

Pub Fare with Flair 

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.” 

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. 

34 


LONDON 

Bistro-Pub 


(N of Queens) 

Scan or Click 

The Bar 


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 in-house-ground beef (& bacon) 

burger, caramelized onions, Stilton cheese, arugula and 

tomato jam; traditional Fish & Chips served with creamy 

tartar sauce and savoy coleslaw; and the Tomahawk Pork 

Chop, a pesto marinated and grilled pork chop on summer 

vegetable polenta terrine with tomato sauce and basil oil. 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

MAP LINK 

519-936-0960 

thechurchkey.ca 

Across from The Grand 

Theatre 

Friendly Courtyard Patio 

Vegetarian Options 

Game Meat of the Week 

Specials 

Food Served Late! 


The Patio 

Lamb Curry – braised Ontario 

lamb shoulder in ginger curry 

sauce on jasmine rice with 

cucumber raita & cilantro 

localflavour.ca 35

GARLIC’S OF LONDON 

Ethical, Seasonal, Regional Cuisine 

As Garlic’s of London hits the 30-year milestone, it remains 

one of Downtown London’s stand-out destinations for a fine 

dining experience. 

Using seasonal 

ingredients from local 

vendors, Garlic’s offers 

an exceptionally crafted 

menu, a specialized 

wine list curated by the 

owner, and an inviting 

ambiance for both 

regular and new guests 

alike. Whether guests are 

coming for a business 

meeting, a leisure meal, 

or to celebrate a special 

occasion, the menu will 

inspire the taste buds to 

no end and the service 

will leave them feeling at 

home. 

The Hot Smoked Garlic 

Fettuccine, pictured on 

the right, is one of Garlic’s 

classics that hits just the 

right notes with the rustic 

décor of the restaurant. 

Other selections have 

a more modern flair, 

providing a combination 

that is sure to keep guests 

coming back for more. 

➤ 

Edin Pehilj – Owner 

36 

Lorelie Cooper - Front of House 

Manager and Events Coordinator 

L to R: Justin Mellott – Senior Sous 

Chef; Neil Rampone – Head Chef; 

Angela Gallardo – Junior Sous Chef 


LONDON 

Farm-to-Table 

Dining 


(S of Dufferin) 

Scan or Click 

The Scene 

The distinctive look of the exposed brick walls displays local 

art by London’s own Steve Tracy, as well as posters for 

previous shows at the neighbouring Grand Theatre. With an 

ever-changing menu, Garlic’s of London stays up to date and 

provides something for all. The modernized bar is sleek yet 

welcoming and can be enjoyed with a signature cocktail or 

one of their tasty appetizers. 


The culinary team led by Head Chef Neil Rampone is driven 

by a vision of innovation, authenticity, and enthusiasm that 

comes through in the classic but unique dishes. 

Involved early on in the farm-to-table movement, 

Garlic’s uses Canadian farmers, and has formed 

strong relationships with local suppliers including 

Metzger’s Meats, Beverly Creek Farms, and 

Slegers Organic Greens. As a staple within the 

community, they also maintain local partnerships 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

with The Grand Theatre, Patrick’s Beans, London Brewing, 

and Anderson Craft Ales, among others. Garlic’s of London 

takes pride in keeping these relationships alive in order to 

strengthen London’s 

cultural hub. 

The carefully created 

food, wine, and cocktail 

menus will perfectly 

complement your 

unforgettable meal and 

night out on the town! 

MAP LINK 

519-432-4092 

garlicsoflondon.com 

Beside The Grand Theatre 

Upscale Rustic Cuisine 

Seasonal Ingredients 

Naturally-Raised Meats 

Menu Changes Monthly 


Pan roasted Beverly 

Creek AAA Beef Tenderloin 

➤ 

➤ Garlic’s Artisan Board 

localflavour.ca 37

BLACKFRIARS BISTRO 

An Authentic Farm-to-Table Experience 

The cuisine at Blackfriars 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. 

38 

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 19thcentury 

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. 


LONDON 

Farm-to-Table 

Bistro 

46 Blackfriars St. 

(Off Wharncliffe) 

Scan or Click 


From the beginning, Blackfriars 

staff has been committed to 

a focus on hospitality and 

generosity. The chefs continue to 

be consistently celebrated for the 

seasonality and integrity of the 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

MAP LINK 

519-667-4930 

blackfriarsbistro.com 

Bistro 

Owner Emanuela Frongia 

Fresh Baking Daily 


cuisine and their innovative 

approach to the culinary arts. 

The Blackfriars kitchen is happy 

to accommodate any Scan or Click 

allergy or dietary 

requirements you 

or your guests may 

have. Please advise in MENU LINK 

advance. Reservations 

are always recommended. 

Catering Experts 

Blackfriars is also renowned as 

one of London’s premier caterers, 

with an approach best described 

as “cutting-edge with a respect 

for tradition.” All the food is 

prepared with fresh, quality 

ingredients in-house by a staff of 

experienced chefs. Customized 

menus will always reflect your 

special requirements. Tell them 

your favourite flavours or leave the 

menu design to the experts! 

Locally-Sourced Seasonal 

Farm-to-Table Menus 

Casual Dining 

In-House Baking 

Take Away & Curbside Pick Up 

Seasonal Patio 

Craft Beer & Small Batch 

Liquors 

Consignment Wines 


Rainbow Registered 

Premier Catering Available 

localflavour.ca 39

GRACE 

Credit: Denice Baker 

Named after Executive Chef Angie Murphy’s 

grandmother, Grace restaurant serves 

intentionally crafted local and seasonal 

flavours while prioritizing our community, 

social responsibility, and industry fairness. 

The Scene 

Located on the ground floor of a yellowbricked 

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. 

Photo Credits Katie Grundt unless otherwise noted. 

40 

Credit: Nick Scott 



Grace proudly serves dishes 

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 to 

reflect seasonal ingredients. 


Grace has an artfully crafted rotating 

4-course prix fixe dinner menu 

changing as local ingredients come 

into season. Sommelier-selected 

wine pairings are available upon 

request. Dishes are also available à 

la carte and dietary restrictions can 

be easily accommodated. 

Delightful small plates 

are available during 

the mid-afternoon and 

late-night Happy Hours 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

(3–6pm; 9–11pm) for a more casual 

experience. Grace holds Sunday 

Brunch (11am–2pm) every weekend 

with modern twists on breakfast 

classics and café quality teas and 

espresso 

drinks. 

One of London’s most exciting and 

innovative beverage programs is 

offered by Grace. Their extensive 

wine list focuses on terroir-driven 

organic or biodynamic Old World 

wines, 

Credit: Denice Baker 

highlighting 

lesser known grapes, 

regions, and artisanal producers. 

There is always something new 

and exciting to sip on — Grace’s 

by-the-glass wine list changes 

weekly. Grace also has a great 

selection of Ontario craft beer and 

cider, and seasonal house-crafted 

cocktails. 

LONDON 

Contemporary 

Canadian 

215 Dundas Street 

(at Clarence) 

Scan or Click 

MAP LINK 

226-667-4822 

gracelondon.ca 

Farm-to-Table Menus 

Prix Fixe & à la Carte Options 

Mid-Afternoon Happy Hour 

Late Night Menu 

Curated Wine List 

Ontario Craft Beers & Ciders 

House-Crafted Cocktails 

Private Room Available 

Plenty of Nearby Parking 

Sunday Brunch 

Casual & Delightful Brunch 

localflavour.ca 41

TAVERNA 13THIRTYONE 

The New Taste 

in Hyde Park! 

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. 

➤ 

➤ 

Co-Owners Chef David 

Lamers & Rob D’Amico 




8 oz California Cut Angus Striploin 

– green beans whipped Yukon gold 

potatoes, caramelized onion & button 

mushrooms, and red wine jus 

Enjoy Happy Hour Specials at the bar 

from 2–5pm seven days a week 

42 


LONDON 

International 

Farm-to-Table 

1331 Hyde Park Road 

(S of South Carriage Rd.) 

Scan or Click 

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 craft 

beers on tap, and a larger selection by the bottle. The Happy 

Hour Menu features $10 off all bottles of wine, and wine-bythe-glass, 

draught beer, and cocktail specials. 

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. 


Chef David Lamers and Chef Eric Robinson lead the kitchen 

team, with a menu that celebrates local and seasonal 

ingredients inspired by international flavours. Charcuterie 

Boards and a selection of small plate options are ideal for 

communal dining experiences, or choose a small plate 

as a starter or a light bite. You’ll also find fresh oysters, 

housemade pastas, tacos, burgers, and an eclectic variety of 

main dishes, along with inspired housemade desserts. 

➤ 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

The Taverna 

Burger, two angus 

beef patties, 

cheddar bacon, 

greens, red onion, 

pickles, 1331 sauce 

MAP LINK 

519-473-1331 

taverna1331.ca 

Private Room Available 

Menus Change Seasonally 


Daily Happy Hour Specials 



➤ 1331 Ale Battered 

Fish & Chips – Nova 

Scotia haddock, 

fries, house tartar 

sauce, coleslaw, 

lemon 

localflavour.ca 43

THE CHEF’S TABLE 

at Fanshawe College 

A Taste of Student Success 

in Downtown London 

The Chef’s Table offers locally-sourced food and 

delicious international flavours prepared and 

served by Fanshawe College students, under the 

guidance of exceptional instructors. Every meal 

and product you order is a learning experience 

that delivers an outstanding guest experience 

and service. 

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. 

44 


LONDON 

Lunch & Dinner 

Café & Catered 

Events 


(E of Talbot)) 

Scan or Click 


Fanshawe students and faculty have created enticing lunch 

and dinner menus using as many locally-sourced 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 studentinspired 

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 


Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

students. Orders open 

on Friday and close 

on Wednesday, with 

pick-up on Thursday 

afternoon. 

MAP LINK 

519-452-4433 

thechefstablefanshawe.ca 

Open to the Public 

Downtown Location 

Locally-Sourced Menus 

Local Wines, Beers & Cocktails 

Fresh Baked Goods 

Online Grocery Store 


Reservations Appreciated 

localflavour.ca 45

TG’S ADDIS ABABA 

RESTAURANT 

Authentic Ethiopian Cuisine 

For more than 20 years, T.G.’s Addis Ababa 

Restaurant has offered an enjoyable tour de 

force from the Ethiopian culinary repertoire 

by Chef/restaurateur T.G. Haile. T.G. is a born 

communicator and guides the uninitiated to 

select from a menu that has been designed 

so you an order à la carte or eat communally. 

Hospitality is imperative in Ethiopia and at T.G.’s 

Addis Ababa Restaurant, it is supreme. 

The Scene 

The modest restaurant is tucked away 

slightly off the beaten track in an 

unassuming brick building on Dundas Street, 

just east of downtown London. The uniquely 

original interior features a number of items 

that reflect the ancient Ethiopian culture, 

which makes an exotic yet comfortable, 

homey atmosphere. 

46 


LONDON 

Family Friendly 

African Dining 


(at Maitland) 

Scan or Click 


Dining at T.G.’S 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. The 

injera can be both a platter and 

an eating utensil. Devotees and 

adventurous newcomers to Ethiopian 

cuisine can 

simply tear a 

piece of injera 

and pinch or 

scoop the food with it and pop it into 

their mouth. It’s a delicious way to 

strengthen bonds of 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. 

There is a large repertoire of vegetarian dishes, 

with a diversity of deftly 

spiced preparations 

based on lentils, split 

peas, 

chickpeas 

and other 

pulses. 

Meat 

dishes fall mostly into two distinct 

categories: red stews (wat), which 

include berbere (a brick-red blend 

of 17 ground spices essential in 

Ethiopian cooking), and green stews 

(alicha wat), which do not. 


Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

MAP LINK 

519-433-4222 

tgsaddisababarestaurant.ca 

TG’s 

ADDIS ABABA 

Restaurant 

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 

localflavour.ca 47

THE TEA LOUNGE 

Experience the World of Tea 

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 stunning ambiance that 

emanates calm. Choose the seating option that suits 

your mood: a café table, the comfy central lounge, 

The Tea Meditation Nook or read a book or watch 

the people go by as you linger on the front porch. 

48 


LONDON 

Tea Highlights 

An impressive selection of teas, 

tisanes and other specialty 

beverages to suit every mood and 

preference. Beautiful traditional 

tea ware and knowledgeable staff 

make it easy to enjoy contemporary 

or traditional styles, or choose iced 

tea, French press coffee, lattes, 

and more. 

Special experiences are available 

to be pre-booked online. Popular 

choices include the Mini Afternoon 

Tea for 2, a Sommelier-selected Tea Flight Experience, and 

the Japanese Tea & Sweets Experience. 

Culinary Delights 

Collaborations with talented 

local chefs allow evergrowing 

menu offerings that Michelle 

calls “consciously delicious.” 

Come for tea and stay for lunch 

or a decadent dessert. There 

is always something fresh and 

scrumptious available. 

Be sure to watch the schedule 

online or sign up to get on 

the email list to get notice for 

special dinner 

events — such 

as the popular 

Dining with the 

Dead featuring 

psychic medium 

Kelly! 

Scan or Click 

Tea Shoppe 

& Café 

268 Piccadilly Street 

(just E of Richmond) 

Scan or Click 

MAP LINK 

519-601-8327 

tealoungelondon.com 

100+ Ethically Sourced Teas 

Lunch, Scones & Treats 

Local Coffee & Kombucha 

Iced Tea, Lattes & Cacao Elixirs 

Bookable Special Experiences 

Shop Teas & Teaware Online 

Classes & Events 


TEA LINK 

localflavour.ca 49

WILLIE’S CAFÉ 

Walk Over to Willie’s 

In the Old East Village 

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. 

Owner Ian Kennard 

50 

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. 


LONDON 

Lunch Café 

& Catering 

630 Dundas St 

(East of Adelaide) 

Scan or Click 

Office 

Lunch 

Specialists 

The Scene 

Originally the Somerville Box Factory and later the O-Pee- 

Chee Candy Factory, an impressive turn-of-the-century 

yellow brick building has been lovingly converted to a multiuse 

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. 


Local suppliers and vendors are supported. All the beef, 

turkey, pork and chicken are cooked in-house to ensure a 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

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 — ovenroasted, 

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 one part of a 

vibrant community. 

MAP LINK 

519-433-9027 

williescafeandcatering.com 

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 

localflavour.ca 51

YASMINE’S 

A New Level of Mediterranean 

Hospitality in London 

In the land of chain restaurants, Yasmine’s offers an 

original and unique take on Mediterranean cuisine. 

Dedicated to showcasing the full spectrum of flavours 

that Lebanon has to offer, expert chefs use the freshest 

ingredients to create exquisitely delicious dishes that 

range from classic favourites to innovative creations 

with unexpected contemporary twists. 

Over centuries, Lebanese cuisine developed a 

somewhat familiar but unique character through Turkish, 

Arab, and French influences. Based very much on what 

was available through the seasons, what was borne 

through necessity became treasured comfort foods, and 

always with a creative eye on opportunities for ways to 

enhance each dish in the most pleasing way. 

Private Events 

52 

Bilal and Farah 

Ashta Ice Cream 

The Scene 

Hospitality is as crucial to Lebanese culture as the 

cuisine. Enjoy the warm Mediterranean ambiance as 

you pass by the generous patio and are transported to 

Lebanon as you enter Yasmine’s. Shades of blue and 

teal and evocative wall art fill the bright and airy space. 

You may be greeted by owners Bilal or Farah. You’ll 

soon understand why Yasmine’s was so honoured by 

last year’s Trip Advisor’s Travellers Choice Award and 

rated so highly locally in Mediterranean and Middle 

Eastern Restaurants, International Food, Fine Dining, 

Caterers and Take-out. Everything is designed for a 

truly complete culinary experience. 


LONDON 

Authentic 

Lebanese Cuisine 


#102 

(at Fanshawe Park Road) 

Scan or Click 


Lebanese cuisine’s ancient roots are grounded in traditions 

that enhance community through the sharing of meals 

together, and Yasmine’s continues that 

practice. A number of the mezza — 

appetizers — are perfect for sharing, 

but there are other dining options 

designed for a couple, a family, or 

a larger 

group. 

Choose 

from main 

dishes 

such as the 

beautifully 

executed 

Mixed Grill 

Platter 

Mixed Grill for 2 

Chef Ashton 


or one of 

Yasmine’s 

specialties 

Lamb Chops 

like their Lamb Chops, marinated and 

charbroiled French-cut lamb chops 

served with truffle mashed potatoes, 

sautéed vegetables and gravy. 

Lebanese and other 

imported wines or a 

special cocktail will 

complement your meal, 

and be sure to leave 

room for dessert. Crème 

Brûlée ... Lebanese Ice Cream ... 

Homemade Cheesecake ... The 

choices are sublime. 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

MAP LINK 

519-204-5000 

yasminesrestaurant.com 


Catering for Any Size Group 

Take-out Available 

Weekday Lunch Specials 

Vegan/Vegetarian/Glutenfriendly 

Options Available 


Bright & Airy Interior 

Convenient Masonville Location 

localflavour.ca 53

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) 

Scan or Click 

MAP LINK 

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 

Salmon Cobb Salad 

Spaghetti Bolognese & meatballs 

56 

LONDON 

PASTO’S GRILL 

Italian Seduction, Bite By Bite 

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, 

butcher-block 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. 


The kitchen is the hub of the restaurant. All meals 

are scratch-made. Traditional recipes are at the 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

heart of the menu with occasional nods to global and modern 

influences 

and 

sensitivities. 

The 

Antipasti 

Menu 

offers many 

options, 

including 

Calamari 

Fritti, 

Lobster Ravioli and Vegetarian Spring Rolls. Other 

recommendations include Pear Salad with a Champagne 

vinaigrette; handmade, 

thin crust 

pizzas such as 

the classics San 

Michelle with pesto, 

grilled chicken, 

and goat cheese; 

Seafood Linguini 

or Braised Beef & 

Wild Mushroom 

Boscaiola. 


KATANA KAFÉ 

& GRILL 

Unique Views & Fabulous Food 

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, 

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 in the house! Reservations 

are recommended. 


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. 

➤ 

Chef Jaime Pena 

The Burrito Bowl 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

➤ Coconut Shrimp & a Hurricane 

LONDON 

Modern Bistro 

2530 Blair Blvd. 

(off Crumlin Rd) in the 

Diamond Flight Centre 

Scan or Click 

MAP LINK 

519-455-9005 

katanakafe.com 

Weekend Breakfasts 

Half-Price Wine Bottles on 

Wednesdays 

London International Airport 

Runway Views 

Free Parking 

1 Block North of the Airport 

localflavour.ca 57

LONDON 

Casual Italian/ 

Mediterranean & 

Traditional Pub 

153-155 Albert Street 

(W of Richmond) 

Scan or Click 

MAP LINK 

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 

58 

LONDON 

FELLINI KOOLINI’S 

& THE RUNT CLUB 

Flavours of Italy & The Mediterranean 

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. 

Scan or Click 


Faves include made-to-order pastas and gourmet 

thin crust pizzas (or design your own). The menu 

MENU LINK 

also offers daily fresh fish, steamed mussels, 

calamari, steak, poultry, pork and veal, with plenty of glutenfree 

and vegetarians 

and options. The Runt 

Club offers the full Fellini 

Koolini’s menu. 

An 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. 

Brown 

Butter Brussels 

Unique private function spaces 

available for your next event 


JOE KOOL’S 

A London Institution 

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, with 

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. 


There are 25 draft beers 

on tap, but Joe Kool’s is 

also about the food. There 

The Kitchen Sink Pizza 

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, Burgers 

Jose Nachos 


and Chicken 

Wings. Also 

recommended 

are the Thai 

Lettuce Wraps 

and the panseared 

chicken and pork 

Pot Stickers. 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

LONDON 

Casual Bar & Grill 


(at Central) 

Scan or Click 

MAP LINK 

519-663-5665 

joekoolsrestaurant.ca 

Bar & Grill by day, House 

Party by Night 

Semi-Private Rooms Available 

Entire Menu Available for 

Take-Out and Delivery 

Vegetarian & Gluten-free 

Options 

Kid’s Menu 

London’s Nightly House Party 

Large & Popular Rooftop Patio 

localflavour.ca 59

LONDON 

Contemporary 

Canadian 

1255 Kilally Road 

(at Highbury) 

Scan or Click 

MAP LINK 

519-451-2085 

ironwoodkitchenandbar.com 

Live Music Fri/Sat 7-10pm 

Ample Free Parking at back 

Semi-private Room Available 

for Private Dining 

Happy Hour Weekdays 1-4pm 

and Daily 8pm–close 

Excellent Cocktail Selection 

Charcuterie Board 

60 

LONDON 

IRONWOOD 

KITCHEN + BAR 

Local Roots | Global Inspiration 

Tucked away in 

a quiet suburban 

neighbourhood, 

this hidden gem 

offers a wonderfully 

cosmopolitan menu 

and the sophisticated 

ambiance to match. 

The Scene 

An abundance of 

beautiful hanging 

lights complement exposed brick and natural wood surfaces. 

A peaceful patio features enough greenery to create the 

perfect private environment for a meal or a cocktail. Enjoy 

daily Happy Hour specials and live music Friday and Saturday 

nights. There is an intimate atmosphere throughout the 

entire restaurant and a room for private dining is available. 


The menu is crafted by the Culinary Director, Chef Nick 

Valin, and his 

talented culinary 

team. Drawing 

inspiration from 

ingredients 

carefully selected 

from local vendors, 

they showcase the 

diverse flavours of 

Southern Ontario. 

Jerk Chicken a la Plancha 

Scan or Click Whether you are 

looking for small plates or 

large plates, the menu is 

designed with a shareable 

MENU LINK dining experience in mind. 

The goal: to take you on a culinary 

journey that you will not forget. 

Wine, spirits, beer, and cider are all 

sourced locally. Gluten-free, vegetarian, 

and vegan options ensure there is 

something for everyone to enjoy. 

Spiced Duck Breast & Local Wine Pairing 


WALDOS ON KING 

Bistro and Wine Bar 

The Scene 

London’s #1 rated restaurant on Trip Advisor is located in the 

heart of downtown London in the Covent Garden Market. 

Waldo’s is the 

perfect location 

for either 

a leisurely 

lunch on the 

all-season 

patio or choose 

from the 20 

Minute Lunch 

Menu if you’re 

King St. Side Entrance and All-Season Patio 


in a rush. This 

is the most 

convenient location for dinner before a game or show at 

Budweiser Gardens. Waldo’s is only steps away 

from the arena with a private entrance from the 

Covent Garden underground parking lot. 


Owner Mark Kitching is classically trained with 

extensive fine dining experience in restaurants 

and hotels in 

Europe, South-East 

Asia and the Middle 

East. For over 30 

years he has offered 

a familiar bistro 

menu featuring the 

finest ingredients 

sourced heavily 

from local growers 

and local artisans. 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

As proprietor of Mark’s Fine Meats, another Covent Garden 

Market hotspot, Mark is 

able to offer the finest 

prime Angus beef — 

Wagyu by request — and 

wild sustainable seafood. 

Of course, he also offers 

a large vegetarian and 

vegan selection. 

Sunday Brunch, a 

Waldo’s tradition, is 

always a delight. 

LONDON 

Casual Bistro 


(Covent Garden Market) 

Scan or Click 

MAP LINK 

519-433-6161 

waldos.on.ca 

Across from Budweiser Gardens 

In Covent Garden Market 

On-site Underground Parking 

Wheelchair Accessible 

Private Catering Available 

Vegetarian & Vegan Options 

Owner Mark Kitching 

localflavour.ca 61

London 

Specialty Shops 

& Services 

62 


LONDON SPECIALTY SHOPS & SERVICES 

localflavour.ca 63

THE PRISTINE OLIVE 

Tasting Bar 

Pouring Fresh for 11 Years 

In June 2012, Jamie and Clara Griffiths 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. 

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 

64 

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, treeto 

bottle transparency 

and third-party sensory 

and chemistry lab testing. 

Their focus on freshness 

is guaranteed through 

Owners Jamie & Clara Griffiths, 

with son Reid and daughter Ally 

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.” 


LONDON 

Olive Oil & 

Balsamic Vinegar 

Tasting Bar 

884 Adelaide St. North 

(at Grosvenor) 

Scan or Click 

Bright and Welcoming Retail Space 

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 colour-free 

product, all the 

aged dark balsamic 

vinegars available 

at The Pristine Olive 

are caramel-colour 

free, with no added 

thickeners or 

sweeteners. 

Sample Pack Options 

Watch the website, Facebook and Instagram 

pages for exciting updates, as there are 

many new ideas and projects on the go. 

#wherefreshmatters 

Scan or Click 

EVOO LINK 

MAP LINK 

519-433-4444 

thepristineolive.ca 

Infused & Fused Olive Oils 

Traditional-style Balsamic 

Vinegar Condimento 

Natural-Flavoured, Whole 

Fruit, and Whole Ingredient 

White and Dark Balsamic 

Vinegars 

Convenient Location with Ample Parking 


Over 60 Oil and Vinegar Flavours 

localflavour.ca 65

MARSHALL’S PASTA 

Pasta and Beyond! 

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. 

66 

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 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. 


LONDON 

Italian Take-Away 

& Catering 

580 Adelaide St. N 

(at Central) 

Scan or Click 

The Bar 


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, 

Owners Jodie & Blake Marshall 

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 

Scan or Click 

spices), a Meatball Sub 

or fresh spaghetti. 

Blake’s BBQ 

MENU LINK 

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. 

MAP LINK 

519-672-7827 

marshallspastacatering.ca 

Fresh Pastas and Sauces 

Eat-in or Take-Away 

Extensive Catering Menu 

School Lunch Fundraisers 

Sports Team Catering 

Specialists 

Blake’s BBQ Mobile Catering 

The Marshall Family 

localflavour.ca 67

BLACKFRIARS EMPORIO 

Pantry/Larder/Bakery 

Authentic Farm-to-Table 

Gourmet-to-Go 

Inspired by its heritage 

neighbourhood location 

and a deep commitment 

to supporting local farms 

and suppliers, Blackfriars 

Emporio is a one-stop shop 

for authentic high quality 

gourmet items, including 

coffee-based drinks and cold 

beverages, delicious fromscratch 

baked goods made 

in-house, artisanal cheeses 

and local dairy products, 

and heat-and-serve gourmet 

takeaway meals. 

Proprietors Bryan Lavery 

and Emanuela Frongia 

68 

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, 

the recently 

refurbished London 

icon, the store is also 

close to fabled Labatt 

Memorial Park, 

the world’s oldest 

baseball stadium. 


LONDON 

Gourmet Food 

Store & Bakery 

44 Blackfriars St. 

(Off Wharncliffe) 

Scan or Click 

MAP LINK 

519-667-4930 

blackfriarsbistro.com 

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 Emporio 

offers a contemporary 

gourmet twist on traditional 

favourites and classic comfort 

foods. In addition to highquality 

specialty items from 

local farms and 

Scan or Click 

artisans, expect 

chef-made soups, 

sauces, salads and 

dressings, as well 

MENU LINK 

as freshly baked 

seasonal pies, tarts, cookies and sweet and savoury treats. 

Takeaway meals might include seasonal soups, our 

signature Chicken Marbella, Beef Bourguignon, a genuinely 

memorable plant-based lasagne or tortière, classic cabbage 

rolls, shepherd’s pie or gourmet mac & cheese. 

Let the experts at Blackfriars Emporio help curate unique 

gift and holiday baskets for the special people in your life. 

Have an event 

coming up? 

Choose from an 


inspired selection 

of custom event 

and wedding 

cakes, cupcakes, 

petit fours and 

hors d’oeuvres 

with advance 

notice. 

Custom Gift Baskets 

Locally-Sourced Seasonal 

Farm-to-Table Products 

Scratch, In-House Baking 

Gourmet Food Products and 

Preserves 

Las Chicas Coffee 

Seasonal Outdoor Sitting 

Craft Beer & Small Batch 

Liquors 

Consignment Olive Oils & 

Wines 

Catering and Pop ups 


Rainbow Registered 

localflavour.ca 69

GRACE BODEGA 

London’s First Cafe, 

Wine Bar & Market 

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. 

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 smallbatch, 

handmade wines 

from tiny producers, never 

available at the lcbo. 

70 


LONDON 

Café, Wine Bar 

& Fresh Market 


(at Clarence) 

Scan or Click 

The Bar 


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 

Scan or Click 

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 

MENU LINK 

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. 

MAP LINK 

226-289-2793 

gracelondon.ca 

Artisanal Pantry Items 

Espressos & Specialty Drinks 

Natural Wines Bottle Shop 

Seasonal Local Produce 


Eat-In or Takeout Food 

Plenty of Nearby Parking 

Fresh Sourdough Bread 

localflavour.ca 71

MAMASIM 

Meal Support for Busy Lives 

When you need quality meal options, but do not 

have the time to cook, nirvana is Mamasim. For 

complete holiday meals with all the fixings, a 

special catered brunch or celebration, delicious 

comfort food the whole family will love, or a 

fun night at home with snacks and appetizers, 

Mamasim has you covered. 

Family dinners are their specialty and provide 

the meal support when you need it. One-pan 

prepared meals and smoked/grilled meats 

are the mainstay, with breakfast options and 

imaginative salads also crafted with care, 

reliably delicious, and ready for pick-up if 

ordered ahead. Gluten free and vegetarian 

options are also available. 

Enchiladas 

Lasagna 

Quiche 

The Scene 

“TL” which stands for Terry-Lynn, and Dave were 

high school sweethearts in the ’70s and now work 

together to share their love for good food. Mamasim 

came along when their daughter’s friends always 

announced “Mamasim is here!” when visiting their 

university dorm with delicious care packages. Since 

then, the name has just stuck. 

Their production kitchen is located just off Adelaide 

Street at Grosvenor, next to The Pristine Olive. They 

can also be found at the Old Imperial Farmers’ 

Market in Aylmer (516 John St. N.) on Saturdays. 

72 

Market Photo Credit: Chris Dancy 


LONDON 

Prepared Meals 

& Catering 

884 Adelaide St. North 

(at Grosvenor) 

Scan or Click 

The Bar 

Pulled Pork Mac ‘n’ Cheese 


Mamasim aims to wrap you up like one of their breakfast 

burritos in food love. 

Mamasim offers frozen meals, soups and chilis 

all ready to heat and serve, plus mix & match 

protein and side-dish options; like brisket paired 

with a soothing 

mango rice noodle 

salad. Their Key Lime Pie is 

like you’re on a weekend 

getaway to Key West. 

Meatloaf on the Smoker 

Capresse Tray 


Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

TL and Dave strongly believe 

in creating partner ships with 

local food businesses. They 

make a Garlic Cheese Bread 

Kit with their custom garlic 

spread and La Noisette’s 

Ciabatta. Olive Oil & Vinegars 

are of the highest quality from 

next door at The Pristine Olive, 

and in Aylmer, their Market 

Sandwich is a combination 

of local ingredients, from 

only market vendors, and 

assembled into one delicious 

sandwich. 

Personal Catering 

Mamasim also offers 

personalized catering options 

to help each individual client 

design a menu that fits 

their event. You will never 

find a “just check the box” 

experience here. 

MAP LINK 

519-777-8259 

mamasim.ca 

Home Cooked Meals 

Breakfast Options 

Smoked Meats & BBQ 

Sweets & Snacks 

Small Event Catering 

Senior or New Baby Support 

Pickup or London Delivery 

Mamasim’s Breakfast Burrito 

localflavour.ca 73

CHURIS BREAD 

Every Crumb Is a Masterpiece 

Emerson Silva brought his passion for artisanal food 

with him when he arrived in London with his family 

in 2018. Coming from Brazil, a country with its own 

culinary traditions, Emerson saw an opportunity 

to start a business based upon that heritage that 

would appeal to Canadian tastes. He launched 

Churis Bread in 2022 and has received a very warm 

welcome. His artisanal bakery produces a variety 

of baked goods that are as beautiful as they are 

delicious, crafted lovingly from scratch daily with the 

finest ingredients, without additives or preservatives. 

The Scene 

Pumpernickel Sourdough 

Churis Bread is a bright and modern 

space with a warm ambiance with 

the rich and homey aromas that only 

a wonderful bakery can provide. The 

service is what one expects from 

a family-run business operated by 

the owners themselves: friendly, 

knowledgeable, and dedicated to 

customer service. 

There is always a selection of 

fresh goodies on hand, including 

exquisite pastries and delicacies 

like a Chocolate Croissant (Pain au 

Chocolat) or a freshly baked (not 

deep-fried) Raspberry Ganache 

Donut. An equally enticing selection 

of specialty breads, the softest buns 

and more are baked fresh daily. 

Shoppers face difficult decisions 

when they peruse the amazing array 

available, but that’s half the fun! 

Owner/Baker Emerson Silva 

74 

Braided Challah 


LONDON 

Artisanal Bakery 

1040 Adelaide St. North 

(Unit 1, at Victoria) 

Scan or Click 


At the heart of Churis Bread is their sourdough starter, or 

levain, lovingly nurtured like another family member. This 

levain is the source of the bakery’s name (chosen by the 

Silva family’s youngest 

son’s to honour his 

favourite stuffed 

animal) and marvelous 

breads. The White 

and the Pumpernickel 

Sourdough loaves 

are specialties, with 

the long process of 

fermentation providing 

the perfect flavour 

and texture, made 

every day from scratch 

without preservatives. 

A variety of Bombs are perfect for breakfast or lunch, like 

the cream cheese and bacon, or spinach and feta combos. 

Likewise, the Ham & Cheese Croissant is a 

perfect “hunger buster” any time of the day. 

Brazilian Cheese Bread, a delicately flavoured 

delight, reflects the Silvas’ South American roots, 

but 

you’ll 

also find an 

excellent Italian 

Bread and a 

perfect French 

Baguette with 

just the right 

Brazilian Cheese Bread 


Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

textures. The light 

Braided Challah is 

available only on 

Fridays. 

MAP LINK 

548-689-9675 

churisbread.ca 

Breads, Pastries & Cakes 

Fresh Premium Ingredients 

No Additives or Preservatives 

Catering and Custom Orders 

Available 

Pickup and Delivery Options 

Bran, Multigrain, Whole Wheat 

& White Sandwich Breads 

Free Shipping Over $50 

Free Parking Available 

localflavour.ca 75

LONDON 

Custom Bakery 

1305 Riverbend Rd, 

Suite 110 

(at Oxford Street West) 

Scan or Click 

MAP LINK 

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 

Variety of Freshly Baked Pastries 

The ORIGINAL London Cakery 

76 

LONDON 

HEY, CUPCAKE! 

Delicious Bites of Creativity 

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 environmentally-conscious, 

Hey, Cupcake! has never used 

plastic packaging and moved 

Walk-In Orders Available 

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. 


Scan the large variety of baking from the 

revolving daily menu. Love chocolate? You’ll find 

Krista Trollope 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

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 

Custom Cake 

& Matching Cupcake 

48 hours notice. 

Curbside pickup, initiated during COVID, is offered as an 

optional service indefinitely. 


JILL’S TABLE 

London’s Destination 

For Food Lovers 

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, 

Proprietor Jill Wilcox 

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 


Scan or Click 

CATALOG LINK 

LONDON 

Kitchen Shop 


(at Talbot 

Scan or Click 

MAP LINK 

519-645-1335 

jillstable.ca 

Unique Specialty Foods 

Superior Kitchenware & Utensils 

Across from Covent Garden 

Market 

localflavour.ca 77

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 agritourism 

industries. History and heritage 

are around every corner. 

78 


MIDDLESEX COUNTY 

localflavour.ca 79

Adventure Awaits... 

Discover our Grassroutes 

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 CLOCK TOWER 

Inn•Bistro•Pub•Caterer 

The Heart of Downtown Strathroy 

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. 

The King Edward Suite 

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. 

82 

The Bistro 

The Pub 


STRATHROY 

Inn | Bistro | 

Pub | Caterer 

71 Frank Street 

(at Centre Street West) 

Scan or Click 


Owner and Executive Chef Mark Graham leads a team of 

highly skilled, creative chefs and some of the best servers 

in the industry. The Clock Tower is Feast ON-certified as 

an authentic “Taste of Ontario” restaurant. Each menu item 

reflects the finest 

quality, locallysourced 

products, 

many in season 

from the Strathroy 

Farmers’ Market. 

An interesting 

wine list includes 

Fresh Locallylocal 

offerings, 

Sourced Ingredients 

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 Scan or Click 

innovative daily specials, from elevated pub fare 

to 5-star desserts. Recommendations include the 

30 Mile Salad, with locally-sourced Whole Pig 

pork loin, Hayters roast turkey breast, Pine River VIDEO LINK 

old white cheddar, Slegers organic greens and 

Frisa Farms hard-boiled eggs garnished with julienne-style 


Innovative 

Housemade 

Desserts 

Chef de Cuisine & Owner Mark 

Graham and his wife Cathy 

peppers, carrots, 

red onions and 

grape tomatoes. 

Enjoy the Clock 

Tower Social 

Hour — Happy 

Hour — Tuesday 

to Saturday from 

4–6 pm. 

MAP LINK 

519-245-5656 

or 519-205-1500 

clocktower-inn.ca 

clocktowercatering.ca 

Clock 

Tower 

Inn | Bistro | Pub | Cateri 

Voted People’s Choice Award 

— Strathroy’s Favourite Resto 

Catering In-house or Offsite 

Seasonal Patios 

Large Capacity Event Space 

8 Unique Guest Suites 

Creative Catering Available 

localflavour.ca 83

FAT OLIVE 

Only the Best! 

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. 

The Scene 

This Italian-inspired familyfriendly 

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. 


84 


AN INSPIRED ESCAPE 

DORCHESTER 

Regional Italian 

Bistro 

2135 Dorchester Rd 

(Hwy 32) 

Scan or Click 


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. 


Open Kitchen 

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, 

Scan or Click 

caramelized onion, 

toasted pine nuts, 

and Parmesan 

cheese. 

MENU LINK 

An exciting Takeout 

Menu as well as Oven- 

Ready Meal Kits are also 

available. 

MAP LINK 

519-268-0001 

fatolive.ca 

LOGO Italian-Inspired DEVELOPED FOR: Family-Friendly 

FAT OLIVE 

ONE INK 

Restaurant 

Unique Italian Wines 

Local Craft Beers 

Open Kitchen 


Reservations Recommended 

Oven-Ready Meal Kits 

Take-out Menu Available 

localflavour.ca 85

HEEMAN’S 

Your Local Connection to 

Flowers, Flavour & Fun 

For over six decades, Heeman’s 

Greenhouse has been a cherished 

family-owned business with a tradition of 

providing exceptional quality and service, 

and nurturing a deep-rooted connection 

with the community. Nestled in the heart 

of Thorndale, Heeman’s is a haven for 

food and beverage enthusiasts, offering a 

delightful combination of a beautiful setting, 

farm-fresh produce, unique craft beverages 

and delectable treats. 

86 

Rudy Heeman 

From Our Family to Yours 

One of the most celebrated offerings are the sweet and juicy 

Heeman’s strawberries, grown here on our farm. From June 

through to the first frost (usually mid-October), you’ll find the 

best freshly picked strawberries for purchase. Heading to the 

cottage or have a little one sleeping in the car? The Berry 

Drive Thru is the healthiest drive thru in town, allowing you 

to quickly grab seasonal local produce (like cherries, peaches 

or strawberries) in the summer months without leaving the 

comfort of your car. 

For a total strawberry experience, the Pick Your Own 

Berry Patch is open seasonally in mid-June for a few short 

but really sweet weeks! 

Cheers Worthy 

Conceived by husband and wife team Tom and 

Susan (3rd generation Heemans!), Heeman’s Cider & 

Mead produces award-winning, unique, small-batch, 

handcrafted ciders and meads onsite. Using the finest 

local ingredients, including Heeman’s own strawberries 

and honey harvested from their apiary, a core 

selection is available year round on the farm, with 

exciting new seasonal releases launched regularly. 


THORNDALE 

Farm Market 

and Nursery 

20422 Nissouri Road 

Scan or Click 

Our Space, Your Happy Place 

Heeman’s invites you to linger in the beautiful greenhouse 

setting, sipping a glass of cider or a Berry Latte! Whether it’s 

a summer stroll to the pond 

and display hills, escaping the 

winter blues in the houseplant 


Escape to Heeman’s 

Greenhouse, a Lush 

Plant Lover’s Paradise! 

The Berry Beanery 

No trip to Heeman’s would be complete without a visit to 

the cozy Berry Beanery, open year-round. Warm up your 

senses with a steaming cup 

of coffee, a frothy latte, or a 

soothing cup of tea. Indulge 

in the signature strawberry 

sundaes or milkshakes (delicious 

vegan alternatives are available 

too), lovingly prepared by 

talented “Berristas”. You can 

also browse from the selection 

of quality preserves like jams, 

honey, pickles, and beets crafted 

with simple local ingredients, 

ensuring you take a taste of 

Heeman’s home with you. 

section, or joining 

one of the many 

workshops, tastings, 

seminars or events 

(visit the website 

for updated event 

listings). Discover the joys 

of Heeman’s with family and 

Scan or Click 

FLAVOUR LINK 

friends, and you can even bring 

your dogs! 

MAP LINK 

519-461-1416 

heeman.ca 

Homegrown Garden Plants, 

Flowers and Houseplants 

Fresh Berries: June–October 

Sundae Bar 

Gardening Accessories 

Seasonal Produce 

Hard Ciders & Meads 

Year Round Coffee Bar 

Varietal Honey 

Signature Strawberry 

Sundaes and Milkshakes 

localflavour.ca 87

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. 

88 


OXFORD COUNTY 

localflavour.ca 89

Do you want to pause, take a breath 

and feel renewed? If the answer is 

yes, we may be the destination for 

you. Visit Oxford County to meet our 

makers, hear our stories and help us 

preserve what makes our community 

special. 

Choose from a dozen experiences 

that will help you slow down and 

reconnect with the world we live 

in and those you love - including 

yourself. Harvest vegetables or a fresh 

bouquet of flowers. Dine alfresco in 

a farm field or berry patch. Talk with 

passionate chefs as they prepare 

your meal. Slow down in the present 

moment with horses, goats and 

alpacas. Craft your own charcuterie 

board or custom batch of soap with a 

local artisan. Learn about the coffee 

roasting process as you craft a batch 

to bring home. Find wellness and 

spark creativity while painting in a 

perennial garden. 

You don’t need to travel far to find 

yourself. Save that travel time 

and energy. Invest it in something 

memorable in Oxford County. 

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 31 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

SIXTHIRTYNINE 

Terroir-Driven Canadian Cuisine 

Since opening in downtown Woodstock in 

2005, sixthirtynine has become a destination 

restaurant for the region and beyond, offering 

everchanging locally sourced and seasonal 

menus. Menus are a creative collaboration 

between Executive Chef and Owner Eric 

Boyar and Chef de Cuisine Sam Vandenberg. 

Dishes are consistently as beautiful on the 

plate as they are on the palate. 

The Scene 

An elegant contemporary 30-seat dining room provides a tasteful 

and comfortable atmosphere. Front house service is headed 

by Chef Eric’s wife, Jennifer Boyar, where the emphasis is on 

unpretentious, attentive and 

professional service. 

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 headed 

by Chef Sam, who ensures 

guests have an engaging and 

memorable experience. 

Patio seating with a lovely 

garden view is also available 

seasonally. 

92 

Executive Chef and 

Owner Eric Boyar 


WOODSTOCK 

Contemporary 

Farm-to-Table 

639 Peel Street 

(at Young) 

Scan or Click 


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 ONcertified 

“Taste of Ontario” restaurant and Chef has earned 

numerous accolades. Chef Sam has been assisting with the 

restaurant’s culinary 

development for 

almost 10 years 

and, together, their 

dishes elevate and 

highlight what is 

available locally, 

while being defined 

by flavour and 

beauty. 

Sixthirtynine’s beverage program features high quality 

regional vqa wines, unique international wines and an 

award-winning craft beer selection. A variety of 

low/no abv beverages are available, including 

renditions of housemade seasonal cocktails. 

Scan or Click 

MAP LINK 

519-536-9602 

sixthirtynine.com 

Open Thursday–Sunday, for 

Dinner Only, 

Reservations by phone or 

online at: 

exploretock.com/sixthirtynine 

Chef’s Table by Reservation 

Chef’s Tasting Menu by Request 

Patio Seating Seasonally 

OXFORD COUNTY 

MENU LINK 

Seasonal 

Tasting 

Menus are 

available 

year round 

for guests, 

both at the 

Chef’s Table 

and in the 

dining room. 

Beautiful Flavourful 

Seasonal Menus 

localflavour.ca 93

GUNN’S HILL 

ARTISAN CHEESE 

Swiss Quality Cheese, Crafted Right Here 

Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese is a small artisan cheese plant 

nestled within the rolling hills of Gunn’s Hill Road in Oxford 

County. Owners Shep Ysselstein and Colleen Bator 

are proud of the thriving little business that is now 

seeing their cheeses in over 300 locations across 

Ontario! The cheeses produced at Gunn’s Hill Artisan 

Cheese are truly unique — although you can taste 

the Swiss influence from techniques and recipes 

founder Shep learned while making cheese in the town 

of Handeck, in the Swiss Alps. 

The Scene 

The cheese plant 

is located within 

the heart of The 

Dairy Capital of 

Canada and is 

only minutes away 

from downtown 

Woodstock. The milk used to create the cheeses comes from 

the neighbouring family dairy farm, Friesvale Farms, where 

the finest Canadian milk is produced. To ensure cheeses that 

are of top quality and taste, Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheeses are 

hand crafted using traditional cheese-making methods. 

Visitors are 

welcome to 

visit Gunn’s Hill 

Artisan Cheese 

to experience 

the unique area, 

learn about dairy 

farming and local 

agriculture, take 

a tour (must be 

booked ahead of 

time) and most 

importantly, simply 

enjoy wonderfully 

delicious cheeses. 

94 


WOODSTOCK 

Artisan Cheese 

Producer & Shop 

445172 Gunn’s Hill Rd. 

(just S of Woodstock) 

Scan or Click 

The Cheese 

Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese is a leader in the production 

of handmade artisan cheeses in Ontario. Today, there are 

two full time cheese makers and a team of staff that work 

diligently to produce some of Canada’s finest award-winning 

cheeses. With over 15 cheeses to choose from, the variety of 

flavours has never been more vast and delicious. 

Best-selling 

favourites include 

5 Brothers, with 

creamy flavours 

and sweeter 

overtones. 

Handeck is a 

drier hard cheese 

with rich complex 

flavours and nutty 

overtones. Tipsy, soaked in red wine before aging, is a mild 

creamy cheese with buttery flavours. Oxford’s Harvest is a 

mild creamy cheese with lightly lactic and buttery 

flavours, also available in several variations, such 

as “Garlic & Chives.” Fresh Cheese Curds are 

available Thursday and Friday afternoons. Their 

rich flavour and “squeak” makes a great snack or 

can be melted in a number of delicious ways. But 

there are too 

many cheeses 

to list them all. 

A visit to the 

well-stocked 

shop is a treat, 

OXFORD COUNTY 

Scan or Click 

CHEESE LINK 

but you can also 

purchase online 

with efficient 

reasonable 

shipping. 

MAP LINK 

519-424-4024 

gunnshillcheese.ca 

Gift Baskets, Boxes and 

Collections 

Sheep Milk and Buffalo Milk 

Cheeses Also Available 

Tours by Prior Booking 

Pickup or Delivery Options 

Cheese Shop Closed Sundays 

Custom Gift Baskets 

localflavour.ca 95

➤ 

EARLY BIRD COFFEE 

Roasted with Love 

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 in the 

hearts and mugs of area 

families and businesses. 

A second café was 

added in Downtown 

Woodstock in 2021. 

Owners Kate and Elio 

The Scene 

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. 

The second café 

location offers 

a warm heritage 

vibe in Downtown 

Woodstock, with 

soaring ceilings and 

cozy seating. Stateof-the-art 

espresso 

machines in both 

locations produce the 

area’s best espressobased 

drinks. Enjoy 

your favourite 

drink with 

delicious 

house-made 

baked goods. 

Rustic Original Location 

96 

Bright & 

Friendly 

Downtown 

Café 


WOODSTOCK 

Coffee Roaster 

& Café 

1. 815 Juliana Drive 

(Off Hwy 59, N of 401) 

Scan or Click 

State-of-the-Art Coffee Roasting 

MAP LINK 

2. 375 Dundas Street 

(N of Vannsittart/Hwy 59) 

Scan or Click 

MAP LINK 

519-532-3127 

earlybirdcoffee.ca 

Coffee Highlights 

Early Bird roasts quality, sustainably-sourced coffee beans 

with social impact and quality in mind. Those specialty 

graded beans are roasted fresh, on-site, 

guaranteeing a delicious and flavourful cup 

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! 

Scan or Click 

SHOP LINK 

Small-Batch Coffee Roasting 

Fresh Coffee & Espressobased 

Specialty Drinks 

House-Made Baked Goods 

Freshly Roasted Coffee by 

the Bag 

OXFORD COUNTY 

localflavour.ca 97

Haldimand 

Haldimand County, where the waters of the southern 

Grand River meet Lake Erie, offers travellers the 

experience of both “Grand River Country” and “Ontario’s 

South Coast.” The Grand gracefully meanders the breadth 

of the county, past friendly small towns and rich farmland. 

Farm families have deep roots in the community. A wide 

variety of fruits and vegetables prosper here, reflected in 

restaurant menus and bustling farmers’ markets. Enjoy a 

cruise through the pastoral countryside and picturesque 

beachfront. You’re sure to arrive at the perfect spot to 

enjoy a delicious taste of Haldimand. 

98 


HALDIMAND COUNTY 

localflavour.ca 99

TWISTED LEMON 

Dine. Stay. Enjoy. 

Enjoy the scenic drive to Cayuga’s Twisted Lemon, 

the award-winning restaurant and boutique inn 

located in the heart of picturesque Haldimand 

County. Over sixty years of combined experience in 

the hospitality industry has taught the husband and 

wife team of Chef Dan Megna and Laurie Megna a 

great deal about food, wine and service. 

With a focus on the true essence of hospitality, 

Twisted Lemon is dedicated to a complete culinary 

experience while also offering the perfect getaway. 

The modern and relaxed elegance of their beautiful 

inn provides the restorative escape you need. 

An amazing variety of one-of-a-kind Experiential 

Packages are available for your next adventure. 

The Scene 

This hidden gem is located just 20 minutes drive 

from Lake Erie, and has been attracting a faithful 

following from far and wide since 2009. Twisted 

Lemon offers a lively open-concept kitchen with 

tasteful contemporary 

decor, with an intimate 

Chef’s Table opportunity 

for “flavour junkies” 

and experienced diners. 

Comfortable boutique 

accommodations feature 

distinctly different rooms 

with a timeless feel 

and modern amenities. 

An outdoor patio is 

available in season. 

100 


CAYUGA 

Contemporary 

Farm-to-Table 

& Boutique Inn 

3 Norton St West 

(at Munsee St N; Hwy 54) 

Scan or Click 


With a mindful approach to seasonal cuisine, the kitchen 

and bar elevate their menus with the freshest possible 

ingredients, inspired by flavours from around the world 

and crafted through a local lens. Chef Dan puts careful 

consideration into each dish to 

illuminate all of the senses with 

depth and balance in flavour 

with photo-worthy presentation. 

Laurie is equally creative 

with her mixology offering 

classic flavours with seasonal 

inspiration and her very own 

trademarked line of shelf stable 

Clarity Unruffled Cocktails. 

Just 30 steps from the 

kitchen, Twisted 

Lemon’s working 

garden cultivates 

vegetables, edible 

flowers and herbs onsite. Their locavore ideology 

takes farm-to-table to the next level. 

The seasonal and locally inspired menu includes exciting 

Scan or Click 

FLAVOUR LINK 

monthly features. For the most adventurous, a Blind Tasting 

Menu, or the Chef’s Menu is available, or combine your 

meal and stay with a 

unique activity, like 

the Ultimate Fishing 

Experience, or drive 

an exotic car on 

Ontario’s premiere 

race track. Custom 

packages are also 

available. 

MAP LINK 

905-772-6636 

twistedlemon.ca 

Adventurous Cuisine 

Chef’s Table & Tasting Menus 

Experiential Packages 

Exclusive Clarity Cocktails 

Patio Seating in Season 

Sustainable Working Garden 

HALDIMAND COUNTY 

localflavour.ca 101

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 wellpreserved 

Victorian-era commercial 

and domestic architecture. The 

coastline stretches 110 km and 

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. 



Photo Credit Dylan McLeod from Unsplash 

HURON COUNTY 


EDDINGTON’S 

OF EXETER 

Proudly, Truly Farm to Table 

For over two decades, Eddington’s of Exeter has 

maintained a dedicated focus on personalized service, 

seasonally-inspired menus and a value-driven customer 

experience. Expect quality ingredients at their peak of 

freshness at any given time, fresh off the vine, picked 

from the tree, foraged from the forest or dug up from the earth. 

The Scene 

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 

Roasted Red Pepper Bisque 

historic landmark. 

Contemporary updates 

from two extensive 

Chef/owner James Eddington 

renovations, including an additional dining room to ensure well-spaced tables and a fullyshaded 

new patio, blend smoothly with original features such as elegant 12-foot ceilings. 

➤ Relax in Jonathan’s Lounge 

Partially Covered 

Heated Seasonal Patio 



EXETER 

Contemporary 

Farm-to-Table 

Cuisine 

527 Main Street 

(Hwy 4) 

Scan or Click 


Chef/owner James Eddington leads a stellar team known for 

White Squirrel Cheesecake 

Housemade Burger & Fries 

HURON COUNTY 

Gourmet 

Pizza 

Nights 

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, 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

featuring local 

wineries and 

imports, always 

has something 

interesting for 

everyone. 

MAP LINK 

519-235-3030 

eddingtons.ca 

Menu Changes Seasonally 

Partially Covered Heated 

Summer Patio 

Adventure Culinary Tours 

Eddington’s Own Premium 

Craft Beers 


Close to Theatres 

Feast ON at Eddington’s 


BENMILLER INN & SPA 

Where Hospitality Comes Naturally! 

Nestled in the rustic hamlet of Benmiller, just outside 

Goderich on the Maitland River, Benmiller Inn & Spa 

is an ideal setting for a weekend getaway, a romantic 

retreat or a few restful days away from the city. The 

historic woolen and grist mills are secluded and 

peaceful, while providing every modern convenience. 

The Scene 

While enjoying dinner, you can take in the beautiful 

sight of Sharpe’s Creek and the meticulously 

manicured gardens. After dinner, relax with drinks in 

the Jonathan’s Lounge beside the roaring fireplace. 

The lovinglyrestored 

19th-century 

Woollen 

Mill used to 

manufacture 

wool blankets 

in the early 

1900s and is 

now home 

Look Out Over the Maitland River 

to 12 unique 

guest rooms. 

The River 

Mill, a former grist mill, overlooks the Maitland River 

and houses 21 rooms, an indoor heated pool, hot tub 

and sauna, as well as the Benmiller Spa, offering 

aesthetic and therapeutic treatments. 

➤ Relax in Jonathan’s Lounge 



GODERICH 

Historic Country 

Inn & Spa 

81175 Benmiller Line 

Scan or Click 

HURON COUNTY 


The Ivey Dining Room, a 

winner of the CAA Four 

Diamond Award, has 

garnered high praise from 

Toronto Life magazine. The 

culinary team is committed 

to providing an 

exceptional dining 

experience while 

still offering the 

comfort of a homecooked 

meal. They 

use fresh, local 

ingredients to 

prepare in-house 

soups, sauces, 

dressings and 

desserts. 

Brunch at the 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

Inn is a seasonallychanging 

affair 

drawing inspiration 

from the farms of 

Huron County and 

their bounty. 

Benmiller Inn 

specializes in 

romantic weddings 

and is a beautiful 

location for business 

conferences and 

rejuvenating 

getaways 

MAP LINK 

519-524-2191 

benmiller.ca 

Historic Creekside Inn 

Close to Theatres 

Free Parking 

Ideal for Romantic Retreats 

Exceptional Dining 

Sunday Brunch 

Full Service Spa 

Getaways, Conferences & 

Weddings 

A Variety of Unique Rooms 

Enjoy Benmiller Year Round 


WHITE SQUIRREL 

GOLF CLUB 

Where Everyone Knows Your Game! 

White Squirrel Golf Club established a new 

and enthusiast reputation with food lovers, 

although the location was familiar. The golf 

course has been an integral part of the Huron 

County scene since the 1970s, but when 

White Squirrel Investments purchased 

the property in 2018, their vision included 

more than great golf. They certainly saw an 

opportunity in the beautiful golf course but 

a key plan was to create a truly welcoming 

clubhouse for more than golfers. 

The Scene 

Hit the driving range or book a tee time at the public 

18-hole golf course just off the shores of Lake Huron, 

but plan to enjoy time relaxing following your golf. 

The expansive patio is a friendly spot with covered 

seating, and the restaurant and bar have a similar 

vibe: comfortable and casual with rustic touches but 

a modern feel. Live music Friday and Saturday nights 

adds to the welcoming atmosphere. 

White Squirrel is a year-round Huron County 

destination. Featured events in the off-season 

include trivia, bingo nights, drag and comedy shows. 

All are welcome year round for a casual lunch or 

dinner but this is also the perfect venue for a special 

event. Let the pros help you plan a White Squirrel 

night to remember. Need a ride? White Squirrel has 

The Pro Shop 

got you covered with their shuttle to ensure you have 

a fun night out. 



ZURICH 

Golf Course & 

Public Restaurant 

72538 Bluewater Hwy 

(Hwy 21) 

Scan or Click 


The White Squirrel recipe — offering quality, locally sourced 

foods and a wide selection of beers, wines, spirits and 

entertainment 

— has been 

enormously 

successful. A 

professional 

culinary team 

uses the area’s 

best produce and 

locally sourced 

meats and 

seafood to create 

tasty dishes for 

everyone to enjoy. The menu changes seasonally, but always 

features traditional pub classics and old favourites. 

Specialties 

include a variety 

of wood-firedoven 

pizzas. 

Sunday Brunch 

is special at 

White Squirrel, 

and there’s even 

a Kid’s Brunch 

Menu in addition 

to the everyday 

Kid’s Menu. 

Group Packages 

White Squirrel is the place to go for group or team 

bookings and events. In the summer, they offer a 

full-day package including shuttle, driving range, 

golf, lunch at the turn, and dinner after the final 

ball is holed. 

The spacious Solarium is a beautiful private space that 

can be made available when you book your holiday parties 

and corporate events, any time of the year. 

HURON COUNTY 

The Solarium 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

MAP LINK 

519-236-4030 

whitesquirrelgolfclub.com 

Public 18-Hole Golf Course 

Driving Range 

Year-Round Restaurant & Bar 

Expansive Outdoor Patio 

Take-Out Available 

Wood-Fired Pizza Oven 

Private Events 

Group Bookings 

Kid’s Menus 

Shuttle Available 

Beer Battered 

Fish & Chips 


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. 

110 


SARNIA-LAMBTON 

localflavour.ca 111

Dine In Style 

Along Ontario’s Blue Coast 

Nothing enhances a weekend visit to Sarnia-Lambton better than ‘dining in 

style’ as you discover and enjoy a new culinary experience. The perfect meal 

to compliment an exciting weekend of exploring along Ontario’s Blue Coast in 

Sarnia-Lambton 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. 

Download the Tour Ontario’s Blue 

Coast app and discover the best 

activities and attractions, earn points 

as you explore 

Sarnia-Lambton and get rewards 

during your stay!

Raise a Glass and Cheers 

In Sarnia-Lambton 

It’s time to plan a weekend of discovery and ‘raise a glass’ along Sarnia- 

Lambton’s Cheers To The Coast Trail. Experience unique urban and rural 

settings across Ontario’s Blue Coast. Sip and savour delicious drinks and their 

perfect food pairings at 10 unique craft breweries, three breathtaking wineries 

and three cideries/meaderies. 

Alton Farms Estate Winery 

Big Family Brewing Co. 

Black Gold Brewery 

Dark Horse Estate Winery 

Imperial City Brew House 

Munro Honey & Meadery 

Point Brewing Co. 

River Run Brew Co. 

Refined Fool Brewing Co. 

Shale Ridge Estate Winery & Cidery 

Stonepicker Brewing Co. 

Torched Brewing Co. 

Twin Pines Orchards & Cider House 

Two Water Brewing Co. 

Widder Station Brewing Co. 

Discover Sarnia-Lambton’s 

Cheers to the Coast Trail at: 

Cheerstothecoast.COM

F.I.N.E. A RESTAURANT 

Casual Fine Dining With a Modern Twist 

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 19 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. 

Crostini-of-the-Day: 

Jumbo Shrimp 

Warm Coffee 

Pot du Crème 

Chef/Owner Erryn Shephard, Front of House 

Manager Susan Tebrugge, and Chef Ben Sandwith 

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. 

114 


GRAND BEND 

Contemporary 

French Bistro 

42 Ontario St. South 

(Hwy 21) 

Scan or Click 


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 who prefer lighter 

or vegetarian fare. 

Fresh Pan-Roasted 

BC Halibut 

HURON COUNTY 

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. 

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. 

Hot Banana Won 

Tons & Ice Cream 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

MAP LINK 

519-238-6224 

finearestaurant.com 

Steps to the River & Beach 

Lunch, Dinner, Desserts 

Comfortable Dining Room 


Local Wines & Craft Beers 

Special Seasonal Menus 

Catering Always Available 

Owner/Chef 

Erryn Shephard 

localflavour.ca 115

GRAND BEND 

Sunday Market 

10163 Lakeshore Rd 

(Hwy 21) 

Scan or Click 

MAP LINK 

519-238-8382 

pinerymarket.com 

Over 200 Vendors 

Food Trucks 

Events 

Live Music 

Licensed Area 

Sundays 9am–4pm 

$2 pp Admission 

Kids Free 

Free Parking 

ATMs Onsite 

Sorry, No RV or Trailer 

Parking Available 

116 

LONDON 

PINERY MARKET 

A Family Tradition 

There are a lot of reasons why this Sunday Market has been 

so successful for over 55 years, but the biggest one may be 

that there is no other market in Ontario like it. The Pinery 

Market has a lively 

festival atmosphere 

with food trucks and 

fantastic shopping. 

Enjoy an 

Eclectic 

Experience 

The Market is nestled in 

a park amongst mature 

oak shade trees, a short 

hop south of Grand 

Bend. Each Sunday 

an eclectic blend of 

over 200 vendors are set up, selling everything, from unique 

handcrafted artisan items to vintage finds. The Market also 

features farm fresh fruits and vegetables, along with a huge 

selection of dried meats and delicious cheeses. 

Food & Drink for Everyone 

Make sure you come hungry. The Pinery Market takes its 

Street Food Sundays very seriously! There are food vendors 

and food trucks for every craving located throughout the 

Market. Inside the main Market Building, the Café can 

kickstart your morning with a latte and fresh scone, and for 

lunch the Pizzeria serves delicious stone-oven pizzas. 

There is also a licensed area, so take a seat and listen to 

Scan or Click 

EVENTS LINK 

the local musicians who play every Sunday, and 

enjoy local craft beer and wine. The Market also 

hosts several busy events each season, such 

as the Ice 

Cream 

Festival 

and Barktoberfest, that 

combines a craft beer 

festival and dog festival 

all in one. 

The Pinery Market 

is open Sundays only, 

9–4, from May 5 

through Thanksgiving. 

Admission is just $2 per 

person, with kids 10 

years and under free. 


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. The lively craft beer scene, 

complemented by a rich distillery heritage, ensures there is a 

libation for everyone, and a delicious meal to go with it. 

118 


WINDSOR-ESSEX-PELEE ISLAND 

localflavour.ca 119

Advertorial 

1 2 3 4 

World 

of Flavour in 

Windsor Essex 

With one of the most diverse populations in 

Canada, Windsor Essex is home to a mosaic 

of culinary delights from across the globe. 

Craving lumpia the way your Lola used to make, 

or your Nonna’s freshly rolled gnocchi? Looking to 

sample traditional Hakka cuisine, or perhaps some 

African jollof rice? Treat your taste buds to a tour 

around the world in YQG! 

The best way to discover our region’s delicious 

multicultural influences is by visiting the many 

unique, ethnic pockets located throughout the 

city and county. 

Searching for authentic Latin flavours? Leamington 

is home to a vibrant Mexican community and 

features a mouth-watering array of dining options, 

including Cancunsito Mexican Cuisine (1). 

Our region also boasts a variety of Middle Eastern 

restaurants, like Eddy’s Mediterranean Bistro (2), 

showcasing traditional dishes like tabouli, falafel, 

hummus, kafta, and more. 

The city’s west end near the University of Windsor is 

a cultural hub for our Asian and Indian communities. 

Enjoy delicious dim sum, noodle dishes, and more 

at Jade Chinese Cuisine (3), or taste the fragrant 

Chinese and Indian fusion dishes at Hakka 

Khazana (4). 

Downtown Windsor features a myriad of eateries 

representing cultures from every corner of the 

globe, including India47 Restaurant + Bar (5). and 

Tropical Hut Philippine Cuisine (6). 

Nearby, you can also savour the flavours of Africa 

at Zuleeats (7), serving up tasty Ghanaian food 

including jollof, meat pies, and fufu. 

A gathering place for our large Italian community, 

Windsor’s Erie Street is home to Mezzo Ristorante 

& Lounge (8); specializing in fresh, handmade pasta 

and other traditional fare.

7 

Zuleeats | Windsor 

Windsor Famous 

Foods 

A visit to Windsor Essex 

wouldn’t be complete without 

a sampling of some of our most 

favourite regional cuisine. 

Our most notable claim to 

fame is the beloved Windsorstyle 

pizza. Shredded 

pepperoni? Game changer. 

5 6 8 

Experience a foodie adventure that could only happen in 

Windsor Essex with Follow the Flavours; an experiential, 

self-guided food trail that will take you through each of our 

diverse districts to fill up on history, community traditions, and 

of course, food! 

Explore each area for an immersive experience and an 

introduction to the flavours that originated from around the 

world. 

Register for the free Follow the Flavours digital passport at 

followtheflavours.ca and start earning points toward tasty 

rewards! 

Follow the Flavours 

The most delicious and diverse 

trail in Windsor Essex. 

followtheflavours.ca 

While not exclusive to our area, 

shawarma is another popular 

YQG snack option, with many 

Middle Eastern restaurants 

putting their own spin on the 

quintessential wrap. 

From traditional potato filling 

to enchilada, apple pie, and 

even pickle, we’ve made the 

classic Eastern European 

pierogi our own too. 

We’re also known for our 

strong taco game, which 

includes traditional offerings 

from Leamington’s Mexican 

community as well as 

unconventional fusion flavours 

from The Grand Cantina and 

El Diablo. 

For a true taste of Windsor, 

head to one of Windsor’s 

Penalty Box Restaurants for 

the famous Chicken Delight. 

They have served up over FIVE 

MILLION of these freshly made 

wraps since opening.

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. 

122 


CHATHAM-KENT 

localflavour.ca 123

Cheers to 

Chatham-Kent! 

Craft breweries and 

a unique winery welcome 

you to discover the great tastes 

of Chatham-Kent. It’ll be love at first sip! 

Early Acres Estate Winery 

— Chatham 

Wining Is Our Business! At Early Acres 

Estate Winery, we believe in enjoying life’s 

special moments with family and friends. 

The best way to do that is with 

a visit to our countryside 

winery and enjoying a glass of 

100% Canadian-made wine. 

We have been perfecting our 

wines for over 15 year s and 

producing several ward 

winning vintages. We have the 

picture perfect setting 

amongst our vineyard for your 

special memories to be 

photographed as well! Cheers! 

Glasstown Brewing Co. 

— Wallaceburg 

Brewed right in the heart of Wallaceburg, our 

goal is to serve-up high quality, carefully 

brewed craft beer. Through intentional production 

and local collaborations, we are proud to offer a diverse 

beer line-up for you to try. 

From tap to table, we hope it’s 

love at first sip. And we're not 

just serving beer! Our Bistro 

boasts the largest 

wood-burning stove in 

Wallaceburg, and we plan to 

put it to good use as our 

menu grows and evolves, 

offering our guests 

thoughtfully planned, 

flavour-forward dishes that 

will make your mouth water.

Red Barn Brewing Co. 

— Blenheim 

Our family-run Agri-Tourism Farm Brewery, in 

beautiful Blenheim, has become a thriving 

hotspot in Chatham-Kent. Red Barn Brewing 

offers a wide selection of 

in-house brewed beers, and 

we host a variety of events 

including big name music 

concerts, comedy shows, and 

community gatherings. With 

our commitment to local 

collaborations, employment 

opportunities, and support 

for charitable causes, we are 

solidifying our status as a 

beloved rural destination. 

Cheers Eh! 

Sons of Kent 

Brewing Co. 

— Chatham 

In the heart of downtown 

Chatham, Sons of Kent brews 

premium crispy craft beer and cider. 

We love bringing the community 

together through music and charity 

events in our backyard event space 

or in the Tap Room. Along with our 

award-winning core brands, Brewmaster 

Colin always has something 

innovative up his sleeve. Our kitchen 

serves up classics like our Farm to 

Table Smash Burger and Signature 

Rueben. Keep your eyes peeled for 

new beers and upcoming events on 

our website or social media. 

Lake 

St. Clair 

Wallaceburg 

Chatham-Kent 

Chatham 

Blenheim 

Lake Erie

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 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. 

126 


Experience the 

flavours of Elgin 

and St.Thomas 

View our 2023 Taste Guide 

Eat, drink and explore 

our local markets, 

restaurants, distilleries, 

wineries, farm tours, 

coffee stops a n d more. 

elgintourist.com 

railwaycitytourism.com

Local 

Craft Beer 

128 



localflavour.ca 129

FRANK Brewing Co. | Tecumseh 

Windsor Essex Craft 

Brews Tour 

From city to county, Windsor Essex is 

home to over a dozen craft breweries 

and distilleries; each with their own 

distinct style. 

Plan your itinerary and discover them 

all with a 1-day Flight Log pass; a 

mobile exclusive, self-guided tasting 

tour at five stops of your choice on 

the Windsor Essex Barrels Bottles & 

Brews trail. 

Learn more and order your passes 

online at flightlog.ca. 

Along the Way 

• Banded Goose Brewing Co. 

• Lot 10 Brewing Company 

• J.P. Wiser’s Experience 

• Walkerville Brewery 

• FRANK Brewing Co. 

View full 

itinerary! 

1 2 3 4 5 

#YQG Inspired 

Cocktail 

Recipes 

Recreate your favourite 

libations from the region’s 

top mixologists. 

2 

The LeBaron 

Spicy Mango 

1 

F&B Restaurant 

Margarita 

Kona Sushi 

3 

The Toronto 

Salute Cafe + Bar 

4 

The Variant 

Maiden Lane Wine 

& Spirits 

Scan for full recipes! 

5 

Butter Tart 

Manhattan 

Wolfhead Distillery

In Windsor, 

We Take Our Pizza 

Very Seriously. 

Where to Get a Slice 

Visit pizza joints across 

Windsor Essex including 

Antonino’s Original Pizza, 

Armando’s Pizza, Original 

Guys Pizza and Oven 360. 

We’re not just slinging any pies, either. 

We’re known for our own unique style: 

a medium thickness crust, baked on 

cornmeal in a stone deck oven. It’s 

really our distinctive toppings that set 

us apart, though: shredded pepperoni, 

Galati Uniondale mozzarella cheese, and 

canned mushrooms. 

Grab yourself a quintessential ‘Large 

Super’ during your stay and check out 

the Windsor pizza documentary, 

The Pizza City You’ve Never 

Heard Of, streaming online now at 

pizzadocumentary.com. 

Galati Cheese 

Based in Windsor, the Galati Cheese 

Company is the go-to supplier for 

freshly made cheese. Their signature 

Uniondale mozzarella melts evenly 

and offers a mild flavour. 

Shredded Pepperoni 

Why shredded? Unlike round pepperoni, 

shredding means the pepperoni can be 

more evenly distributed, ensuring you 

get that satisfying taste of pepperoni in 

every bite. 

Canned Mushrooms 

While large chains may use fresh mushrooms, 

the Windsor-style pizza calls for canned 

mushrooms, which hold up to the high heat 

of the pizza oven without drying out. 

Antonino’s Original Pizza | LaSalle, Leamington & Windsor 

Join the club!

TOBOGGAN 

BREWING CO. 

Craft Beer Brewery & Local Food Focus 

With a state-of-the-art craft brewery in the basement, a chic farmto-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 

small-batch specials. 

Two Gold Medalwinning 

Toboggan 

ciders are also on 

tap. Enjoy a pint or a 

tasting flight in-house 

or take some home 

with you. 

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 front entrance offers a regular and 

rotating selection of Toboggan 

beers to take home, and all the 

accessories you might need. 

132 


LONDON 

Brewery, Farmto-Table 

Pub & 

Retail Beer Store 


(at Central) 

Scan or Click 


“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. 


Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

MAP LINK 

519-433-BEER 

(2337) 

tobogganbrewing.com 

10 Toboggan Craft Beers 

Seasonal Small-Batch Specials 

Toboggan Craft Ciders on Tap 

Vegetarian & Gluten-free 

Options 

Store Open Daily, incl. Holidays 

localflavour.ca 133

➤ 

ANDERSON 

CRAFT ALES 

Ask for Anderson 

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.” 

The Anderson Family 

Anderson Craft Ales is a strong 

community force and recently celebrated 

its seventh 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. 

134 

Award-Winning Beers 


LONDON 

Craft Brewery 

1030 Elias Street 

(East of Dorinda) 

Scan or Click 

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 in-house kitchen by a team of local chefs, known 

as EatOA! Think Smoked Beef 

Tacos with peppercorn gravy, 

sauteed mushrooms, crispy 

onions and blue cheese crema, 

or “Hungary Butcher” Bratwurst 

simmered in Autumn Ale with a 

warm potato salad, sauerkraut 

and beer mustard. 

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 (strawcoloured, 

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 


Friendly Bar & Retail Space 

Large Outdoor Patio Space 

EatOA! 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

Anderson Craft Ales 

at the Beer Store and 

lcbo in cans, and 

on tap at an evergrowing 

number of 

bars and restaurants. 

MAP LINK 

548-888-ALES 

(2537) 

andersoncraftales.ca 

Family Owned & Operated 

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 

localflavour.ca 135

LONDON BREWING 

Brewing Up Some Very Different Beer 

Local. Organic. Cooperative. These three words 

are the cornerstones of London Brewing’s entire 

philosophy. One of only a handful of certified 

organic breweries in the province, you’ll find they 

do things very differently here. They’re also a 

worker- owned cooperative, with a dedicated team 

of worker-owners expertly brewing and serving 

outstanding locally-focused beers. 

The Scene 

Nestled in the heart of London’s 

charming Old East Village, London 

Brewing prides themselves on 

their “neighborhood hub” feel. 

They build community through their 

numerous events throughout the 

week including live music, Euchre 

tournament, and Trivia Night. 

Enjoy some truly local beers in 

their inviting taproom or on one of 

two different patio spaces. Don’t 

forget to grab some brews to go 

from the fully stocked retail shop on 

the way out! 

136 


LONDON 

Worker Owned 

Organic Craft 

Brewery & 

Taproom 

521 Burbrook Place 

(at Princess Ave.) 

Scan or Click 

The Beers 

Unofficially, these are some of the most local beers you can 

get. All of London Brewing’s beers are brewed right there on 

Burbrook Street using the best quality local ingredients they 

can find. Strong relationships with local maltsters resulted 

in London Brewing being crowned Canada’s first Craft Malt 

Certified brewery. 

Along with a 

lengthy list of 

rotating seasonals, 

and their newly 

launched Seltzer 

Series, be sure 

to give these two 

brews a try: 

• London Organic 

Lager: crisp, 

clear, and ultra drinkable, with enough body to keep things 

interesting. An instant classic. 

• Organic Hazy IPA: Juicy, hazy, and super 

Scan or Click 

smooth; an IPA complex enough for IPA lovers 

but smooth enough for skeptics. 

The Food 

The newly launched On The Move Eats kitchen MENU LINK 

operates within London Brewing with a creative 

self-serve menu that you 

order from with your 

phone. Expect explicitly 

local comfort food and 

simple fare — perfect for 

sharing — like Fries with 

Spicy Kimchi or a Pulled 


Pork Pizza. Catering, with 

a local focus of course, is 

also available. 

MAP LINK 

226-667-6363 

londonbrewing.ca 

onthemoveeats.square.site 

Full Tasting Room with a 

Brewing Process View 

Fully Stocked Retail Store 

On The Move Eats Kitchen 

Outdoor & Indoor Seating 

Fully Stocked Retail Fridge 

localflavour.ca 137

WOODSTOCK 

Craft Brewery 

& Taproom 

9-225 Bysham Park Dr. 

(at Landsdowne Ave.) 

Scan or Click 

MAP LINK 

519-290-0053 

upperthamesbrewing.ca 

Live Music Fridays & 

Saturdays 

Brewery Tours & Retail Store 

Available for Weddings & 

Events 

LONDON 

UPPER THAMES 

BREWING CO. 

Made Right. Here. 

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. 

The Scene 

The beautiful Upper 

Thames Brewing Co.’s 

open concept taproom 

features a Canadiana 

outdoor theme. Sit at the 

live-edge bar for a full 

view of the brewhouse 

in action while enjoying 

brew from a selection of 

18 taps featuring 8 UTBC 

core brews, 6 UTBC limited 

release taps and 4 guest 

taps. 

Hungry? Enjoy a an ovenbaked, 

thin crust artisanal 

pizza made from scratch by 

our pizza chefs using our 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

own Backpaddle 

Blonde in the 

dough. Pop in on Wednesday night for Pub Trivia/ 

Bingo or drop in on select Thursday nights for 

Open Mic. If music is your jam, catch some live 

music every Friday and Saturday. The venue is 

also available for wedding/event rentals. Be sure 

to check out our events page. 

138 


BRICKHOUSE 

BREWPUB 

Shared Passion 

The first of its kind in Oxford County, Brickhouse Brewpub 

offers on-site brewing, a retail bottleshop and 25 taps of all 

independent Ontario craft beer featuring 13 taps of Upper 

Thames Brewing Company beer and 12 taps showcasing 

other craft breweries from around Ontario. 

WOODSTOCK 

Craft Brewery 

& Brew Pub 

190 Fairway Road 

(E of Vansittart) 

Scan or Click 

MAP LINK 

519-290-5347 

upperthamesbrewing.ca/ 

brewpub 

The Scene 

Brickhouse Brewpub, an extension of Upper Thames 

Brewing Company, is set in a beautiful brick building formerly 

serving as a historic powerhouse for an old 

Scan or Click 

hospital. The Canadiana/Industrial motif with liveedge 

tables and bar offer a great spot to enjoy 

a meal and drink. Enjoy serene ambiance on the 

beautiful pine-bordered patio, which overlooks 

MENU LINK 

Sally Creek Golf course. 

A full-kitchen offers a wide selection of upscale, beerinfused 

brewpub fare. Try the Brickhouse Burger — a fresh 


Prime Rib chuck 

patty with 

beer-braised 

onions, bacon 

jam, Gunn’s Hill 

cheese curds. 

and Timberbeast 

Brown Ale gravy 

on a soft brioche 

bun. 

Full Kitchen, Counter Service 

Beer-Infused Pub Fare 

25 Taps, Full Bar & Wine 

Beer & Merch Retail Store 

localflavour.ca 139

SHAKESPEARE 

Craft Brewery 

& Taproom 

2178 Line 34 

(Hwy 7/8) 24 

Scan or Click 

LONDON 

SHAKESPEARE 

BREWING CO. 

True Ontario Taste 

As part of a mission to redefine what “local” means to craft 

beer, Shakespeare Brewing Co. is fully committed to using 

Ontario-grown ingredients for a true Ontario taste. Adding 

this agricultural component to its artisanal approach supports 

farmers and other small local businesses. 

MAP LINK 

519-777-5469 

or 519-276-7638 

shakespearebrewingcompany.ca 

Well-stocked Bottle Shop 

Cozy Taproom 


Seasonal Beer Garden 

100% Ontario-grown Hops 

Seasonal Beer Garden Seating 

Discover Your Favourite! 

140 

The Scene 

Husband and wife team Ayden 

and Katie were inspired by 

travels in Europe and found the 

perfect space in the quaint town 

of Shakespeare, 10 minutes 

from Stratford, for a welcoming 

and kid-friendly (they have two 

youngsters) brewery. Enjoy a free 

sample or a glass inside the cozy 

Scan or Click 

BEERS LINK 

English-style taproom. 

In warmer weather 

grab a seat on the 

beer garden patio, surrounded by cascading hops. 

Snacks are available or bring your own food! 

Beer Highlights 

Six core brands and a variety of limited releases and seasonal 

brews ensure there 

is something for 

everyone. Favourites 

include The Reckless 

Rooster — an Ontario 

Pale Ale, mildly 

bitter with balanced 

malt character and 

100% Ontario-grown 

ingredients. 

A Cozy Spot 

for a Beer 

Family Owned & Operated 


THE BLUE 

ELEPHANT 

CRAFT BREW 

HOUSE 

Fresh Beer Brewed 

at The Blue! 

In 1992 Heather Pond-Manorome 

opened the Blue Elephant, serving 

up fresh local and international 

cuisine using ingredients from 

Norfolk’s renowned agricultural 

riches. It was already a local 

landmark when the doors of the 

Blue Elephant Craft Brew House 

opened In 2012. 

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. Two outdoor patios are open in season. 

Highlights 

Blue Elephant handcrafts beers 

with the same commitment to 

fresh, locally-grown ingredients 

as the restaurant, which is Feast 

ON-certified as an authentic 

taste of place in Ontario. Delicious 

and original Spent Grain Pizzas 

are signature items, utilizing 

brewing byproducts, and a wide 

variety of area farmers contribute 

to the creative menu offerings, 

all made to order. 


Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

SIMCOE 

Craft Beer & 

Farm-to-Table 

Restaurant 

96 Norfolk Street South 

(Hwy 24) 

Scan or Click 

MAP LINK 

519-428-2886 

blueelephant.ca 

Several Distinct Dining Area 

Family Owned and Operated 

Two Seasonal Patios & Shed 

Rotating Craft Beer Selection 

Beer Flights Available 

“Brewed Biscuits” Pet Treats 

localflavour.ca 141

Local Wines 

142 


INTRODUCTION 

localflavour.ca 143

A Windsor Essex 

Wine Experience 

Our winemaking history along the Essex 

Pelee Island Coast (EPIC) dates back to the 

1860s and is as rich as the soil in which we 

grow our grapes. 

Sip your way through the many 

award-winning varietals and explore unique 

shopping destinations with a day trip 

through EPIC wine country. 

2 

Learn about the ‘Vine to Wine’ process with a 

tour of Pelee Island Winery, then stop at The 

Local Maker for some distinctively YQG gifts. 

Share a delectable lunch at Oxley Estate 

Winery before exploring Serenity Lavender 

Farm, followed by a tasting at nearby 

Colchester Ridge Estate Winery. 

With their wood fired pizzas and creamy 

gelato, Muscedere Vineyards is the perfect 

spot for dinner and dessert before you end 

your day with a tasting in the woods at 

VIN Winery. 

3 

Along the Way 

1. Pelee Island Winery 

2. Oxley Estate Winery 

3. Colchester Ridge Estate Winery 

4. Muscedere Vineyards 

5. VIN Winery 

4 

1 

Pelee Island Winery | Kingsville 

5 

View full 

itinerary! 

FOOD AND DRINK | Windsor Essex Visitor Guide 2023 - 2024

Where to Eat in 

Windsor Essex 

1. Billy’s Taphouse 

2. The Sandwich Nook 

3. L.A. Town Grill 

4. The Twisted Apron 

5. The Dog & Goat 

Restaurant 

6. Sandbar Waterfront Grill 

7. Jack’s Gastropub 

8. Pepper Cat 

9. Riviera Maya Grill 

1 

Billy’s Taphouse | Essex 

2 

3 

4 

5 

6 

7 

8 

9 

Whether you’re an early bird or a night 

owl, you’ll find delicious dining options any 

time of day with the Windsor Essex regional 

dining guide at dineyqg.ca. 

Enjoy an unmatched farm-to-fork dining 

experience at Billy’s Taphouse in Essex, with 

locally sourced lunch and dinner fare. 

A favourite among Tecumseh residents, 

The Sandwich Nook offers a classic diner 

atmosphere with home-cooked breakfasts, 

soups, salads, and sandwiches. 

In LaSalle, L.A. Town Grill is serving up 

breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily in a modern, 

fresh setting. 

Breakfast? Lunch? At The Twisted Apron in 

Windsor, you never have to choose with the 

brunch bar’s Instagram-worthy menu of sweet 

and savoury dishes. 

Need to refuel after biking across Pelee Island? 

Pull into The Dog & Goat Restaurant for a 

midday snack or a hearty dinner. 

In Lakeshore, spend lunch on a sunny 

waterfront patio or enjoy a sunset dinner at 

Sandbar Waterfront Grill. 

With a rotating menu of locally inspired 

seasonal dishes, Jack’s Gastropub is a popular 

destination for lunch and dinner in Kingsville. 

Searching for the perfect spot for an intimate 

dinner in Amherstburg? Pepper Cat offers 

mouth-watering surf and turf and expertly 

crafted cocktails. 

Craving authentic Mexican cuisine for lunch or 

dinner? Visit Riviera Maya Grill in Leamington 

for tacos, fajitas, and more.

ALTON FARMS 

ESTATE WINERY 

Pioneers of Huron Shores! 

Family-owned and operated by husband 

and wife team Marc Alton and Anne Kurtz- 

Alton, Alton Farms Estate Winery recently 

celebrated its tenth 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. 

➤ 

Welcoming Tasting Room 

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! 

146 

Owners Anne 

Kurtz-Alton and 

Marc Alton 

LOCAL FLACOUR: Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide

PLYMPTON- 

WYOMING 

Winery & 

Event Centre 

5547 Aberarder Line 

(Hwy 11, just W of Hwy 21) 

Scan or Click 

MAP LINK 

519-381-1112 

altonfarmsestatewinery.com 

Wine 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, 

LOCAL WINES 

Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

at many restaurants, 

select lcbos, the 

Bayfield, Brights 

Grove, Komoka and 

Petrolia farmers’ 

markets, and can be 

ordered online. 

Most Wines Ontario vqa 

Tasting Room & Tours 

Available 


Saturday Summer Music 

Check FB for Special Events 


Trails for Hiking & CC Skiing 

localflavour.ca 147

SPRUCEWOOD SHORES 

ESTATE WINERY 

A Wine Destination Paradise! 

Siblings Tanya (Winemaker) and Steve 

Mitchell (Sales & Marketing) have been 

crafting wines for 17 years at Ontario’s only 

beachfront winery. Enjoy from over 20 

different wine styles available to sample at 

their beautiful winery every day 11 to 5. 

Taste wines and enjoy one of their 

picnic baskets on the beach or covered 

patio. Picnic baskets include gourmet 

cheese, deli baguettes, fruit, vegetables, 

hummus, antipasto, and dessert. Private 

and guided group tours can be booked by 

appointment. 

➤ 

Award-Winning Pinot Grigio 

Siblings Tanya and Steve Mitchell 

148 

Beach Glass Wines 

LOCAL FLACOUR: Southwest Ontario Culinary Guide

AMHERSTBURG 

Winery & 

Event Centre 

7258 County Rd 50 West 

(just E of Holiday Beach) 

Scan or Click 

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 views of the vineyard and Lake Erie. 

An elegant Reception Hall with panoramic 

views was added in 2015. Full service wedding 

and event planning services are available. 

Scan or Click 

Wine Highlights 

With a focus on quality craft production, they produce three 

series of wines available at the winery store, with a lineup 

that is broad enough to offer you something you enjoy. 

The LCBO carries their Sprucewood Shores Pinot Grigio, 

MENU LINK 

Dry Riesling, Sweet Select Riesling, Lady in Red (Cabernet 

Merlot), and now Beach Glass White. 

A mulled wine — Warm ’n Cozy — is available 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. 

MAP LINK 

519-738-9253 

sprucewoodshores.com 

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 

LOCAL WINES 

localflavour.ca 149

Craft 

Distilleries & 

Cideries 

150 



localflavour.ca 151

TWIN PINES ORCHARDS 

& CIDER HOUSE 

Welcome to Twin Pines: 

A Three Generation Family Farm 

The Vansteenkiste Family is committed to providing the 

very best experience in premium traditional British cider, 

made exclusively 

onsite. From planting 

the trees to crafting 

the cider, it’s all done 

with quality and care. 

Embrace the best 

of each season at 

Twin Pines Orchards, 

located in Lambton 

Shores. The lush 

trails, ponds and 

gardens are just the 

beginning! Whether 

it’s snowshoeing 

through the orchards, 

breathing in spring 

blossoms, enjoying 

a cold pint of cider 

under the pavilion on 

a summer’s day, or 

picking a basket of 

fresh apples in fall, 

every season is a 

feast for the senses. 

152 


THEDFORD 

Apple Orchard, 

Cider House & 

Estate Winery 

8169 Kennedy Line 

(East of Hwy 79) 

Scan or Click 

The Scene 

The beautiful timber frame Cider House is the heart of the 

operation, with merch, giftware and the bounty of a busy 

kitchen: preserves, 

frozen and fresh-baked 

pastries, including 

homemade jumbo 

pretzels and delectable 

hand-pies. On weekends 

their woodfired pizza 

oven turns out fresh 

gourmet pizza as well! The Tap Room will be ready to guide 

you through a tasting, and pour you a pint to enjoy as you 

stroll the property or relax under the stunning 

timber frame Pavilion with the backdrop of 

gently rolling orchards. 

Award-Winning Ciders, 

Wine and More! 

Twin Pines is honoured to have been awarded 

International Cider Maker of the Year, for both 2022 and 

2023 in The Great Lakes International Cider and Perry 

Competition (GLINTCAP). This international recognition 

speaks to the quality and authenticity of this remarkable 

farm. From the apples on the tree to the cider in the bottle, 

the artistry is evident in everything you see and taste. 

Twin Pines’ range of gluten free Hammer Bent label 

ciders, wine and 

perry are always 

made onsite from 

original recipes 


Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

that bring to life the 

exquisite taste of 

British Cider. Let your 

taste buds explore at 

Twin Pines! 

MAP LINK 

519-296-5558 

twinpinesorchards.com 

Family Owned and Operated 

Award-Winning Hard Ciders 

Beautiful Gift Shop 

Preserves, Pastries & Pies 

Woodfired Pizza Oven 

Trails, Ponds & Gardens 

Fresh Fruits & Vegetables 

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

WOLFHEAD 

DISTILLERY 

Let’s Patio 

Voted #1 on 

TripAdvisor! • 6x 

Winner of The Art of 

Cocktail Award! • 4.8 

Stars on Open Table! 

Wolfhead Distillery 

is a hidden gem in 

Essex County. Owners 

and Amherstburg locals, Tom & Sue Manherz with Larry 

Girard, were inspired by the history of rumrunning in the 

local area and turned that interest into a premium craft 

distillery, restaurant and retail store. The rustic and charming 

restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner featuring 

a wildly-delicious roadhouse menu with locally sourced 

ingredients and infused spirits. Enjoy a hand-crafted cocktail 

on the patio with live entertainment on weekends. Discover 

Wolfhead’s events or book your own! 

Don’t Forget 

the Goods! 

The store has a wide 

selection of apparel, gifts, 

and premium spirits. 

Public tours and tastings 

are on weekends, with 

group tours by reservation. Can’t make it to the distillery? No 

problem. Wolfhead also has an online shop open 24/7. 

Good Things Come In Small Batches 

Wolfhead Distillery features small batch, double 

barrel Premium Craft Whisky, Vodka and more. 

Popular flavoured spirits include Coffee Whisky 

Liqueur, Grapefruit Vodka, Banana Caramel 

Vodka and River’s End Gin, inspired by the 

beauty of Lake Erie. 

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 


Scan or Click 

MENU LINK 

online to be a member of The Wolfpack! You’ll be the first to 

know about new releases and events. Stay Wild! 

AMHERSTBURG 

Craft Distillery, 

Retail Store & 

Restaurant 

7781 Howard Avenue 

(Hwy 9) 

Scan or Click 

MAP LINK 

519-726-1111 

drinkwolfhead.com 

Public Tours Available 

Farm-to-Table Dining 

Available for Private Parties 

Dog-Friendly Patio Area 

Destination Craft Distillery 

Open Table Reservations 

localflavour.ca 155

Farmers’ 

Markets 

156 


COVENT 

GARDEN 

MARKET 

Taste the Market Experience 

Immerse yourself in the rich local flavours at Covent Garden 

Market, ideally nestled in the bustling downtown junction of 

King and Talbot Streets. This iconic cultural landmark holds 

an irresistible allure for both Londoners and visitors from 

afar, encapsulating the very essence of the city’s vibrant 

downtown scene. 

LONDON 

Farmers’ Market 


(at Talbot) 

Scan or Click 

MAP LINK 

519-439-3921 

coventmarket.com 

Traditions Old and New 

Embrace the fusion of old and new at the Covent Garden 

Market. While many cherished vendors have been in the 

Market for years, they now feature an exciting selection 

of fresh 

and unique 

additions. 

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 

Pastry Culture, the authentic French Bakery offering the real 

French experience through a range of classic and regional 

baked goods. You can also find chocolatiers, market-roasted 

coffees and a wide selection of seasonal fresh-cut flowers. 

FARMERS’ MARKETS 

Year-round Culinary Hub of 

Retailers, Restaurants & 

Cultural Events 

Underground Parking 

Covent Garden Market Fresh 

localflavour.ca 157

Saturday Farmers’ Market 

Visit the Outdoor Farmers’ Market every 

Saturday from now until December at the 

Rotary Square. Enjoy live performances by local 

musicians from the London Arts Live program as 

you connect directly with passionate farmers, 

growers, and producers who are dedicated to 

delivering high-quality food. The Market vendors 

proudly “grow it, raise it, bake it, or make it!” 

Experience the unbeatable taste of local products 

and discover why there’s nothing better. 

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 

Rotary 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 area. The Market is 

full of enticing surprises, adding an element of 

discovery to the consistent appeal and bounty of 

Covent Garden Market. 

158 

Enjoy the Market Magic 

The Market is the place to be, where 

tradition and innovation converge. 

With diverse vendors offering farmfresh 

delights and unique creations, 

Scan or Click 

EVENTS LINK 

it’s a hub of community 

and culinary experiences. 

Savour the flavours, 

explore the artisans, 

and immerse yourself in 

the vibrant atmosphere. 

Discover why the Market is an 

unforgettable destination that keeps 

you coming back for more. 


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 

Publisher 

Chris McDonell 

chris@eatdrink.ca 

Writers 

Chris McDonell 

Bryan Lavery — Bryan 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. 

Photography 

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

from Ontario’s Southwest, a library of images available for use in promoting 

our region. 

Thanks and credits to the businesses profiled in this guide for providing so 

many of the images. Photo credits were given only when requested. 

Our primary cover image is from Garlic’s of London. The lower plate features 

their Beef Tenderloin, an 8oz AAA beef tenderloin with roasted garlic potato 

pavé, parsnip pureé, seasonal vegetables, and the house demi-glace. The 

upper plate features the Chicken Supreme, a 7oz pan-roasted chicken 

supreme with pesto risotto, roasted red pepper, cherry tomato, shallot, 

charred rapini, herb jus, and Ontario micro-greens. 

Appreciation 

Special thanks to Sue Gordon for her consistent support while we completed 

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

homefront run more smoothly during a busy time. 

Copyright © 2023 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, Eatdrink assumes 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. 

eatdrink 


Eatdrink Inc. 

525 Huron Street 

London ON N5Y 4J6 

519-434-8349 

eatdrink.ca 


eatdrinkmagazine @eatdrinkmag eatdrinkmag

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 10

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