Places To Eat: Niagara Region Edition
When in the Niagara region, the best way to explore the city is through its food and no one knows the local scene better than Top Chef Canada winner and culinary expert Chef Erica Karbelnik. Chef Erica took us on a flavour-packed crawl through her favourite spots, from cozy cafés to vineyards with stunning views. Whether you’re planning a trip or just hungry for a foodie day out, here’s Erica’s guide to eating your way through the Niagara region.
Stop 1: Bright Pours Café
Kick off your day with a perfectly brewed coffee, latte, or matcha at Bright Pours Café. This cozy spot is the ultimate morning pit stop before diving into the rest of the crawl. I went for a salted caramel latte that was an absolute hit, while Erica sipped on a refreshing coconut matcha that felt like the perfect wake-up call.
Stop 2: Fat Rabbit
If charcuterie is your love language, Fat Rabbit is non-negotiable. Famous for their beautifully crafted boards and what Chef Erica swears is the best breakfast sandwich she’s ever had in her life, this spot is where comfort meets creativity. We kicked things off with the chef’s choice charcuterie (an absolute dream), followed by the sausage breakfast sandwich that truly speaks for itself. To balance it out, we added a light summer squash dish and a refreshing shrimp and tomato salad. Safe to say, this was one of the top highlights of the day.
Stop 3: Beechwood Doughnuts
No food crawl is complete without something sweet, and Beechwood Doughnuts never disappoints. Renowned for their vegan creations, these doughnuts are just as stunning as they are delicious. Trust us, you’ll want to grab a box to go. Top picks to start: the Birthday Cake, Peach Cobbler, and Peach Fritter.
Stop 4: Ravine Vineyard
Next stop: wine country. Ravine Vineyard pairs breathtaking views with thoughtful small plates that showcase the best of the region. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to settle into for the entire afternoon. Kick things off with bites like crispy cauliflower, mushrooms on toast, or the duck and pork terrine. Their charcuterie boards and wood-fired pizzas are also local favourites. And of course, no visit is complete without a glass (or two) of their signature wines.
Stop 5: The Garrison House
End your crawl on a high note at The Garrison House in nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake. With fresh oysters and perfectly crafted martinis, it’s the ideal way to wrap up a day of indulgence.
Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, these foodie-approved stops are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Follow Chef Erica’s lead and discover the best bites that the Niagara region has to offer.