Embark on a culinary adventure through picturesque Lanark County, a region brimming with artisanal flavours, charming small towns, and scenic landscapes. From craft chocolate in Almonte to craft beers in Perth, this day trip itinerary offers a delightful mix of sweet and savoury experiences.
Spend a Delicious Day in Lanark County
Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or just looking to explore, these six stops will give you a taste of what Lanark County offers.
Stop #1: Hummingbird Chocolate
Where: 476 Ottawa St. Almonte, ON. (View Map)
Start your day in the quaint town of Almonte at Hummingbird Chocolate, where chocolate-making is elevated to an art form. As one of the few craft chocolate makers in Canada, Hummingbird prides itself on producing chocolate directly from carefully sourced cocoa beans.
The commitment to quality is evident in every bite, with the chocolatiers working closely with farmers to ensure only the best beans are used. They offer a unique experience where you can indulge in some of the finest chocolate products crafted right on-site. From the moment you step in, the rich aroma of chocolate envelops you, setting the stage for a sensory journey.
Must-Try: Savour an iced mocha latte or a Mayan hot chocolate, both crafted with their own chocolate. The iced mocha latte is a refreshing blend that balances the robust flavour of coffee with the richness of chocolate, while the Mayan hot chocolate offers a warming, spiced experience that will delight your palate.
Don’t leave without grabbing some of their award-winning chocolate bars like the Mocha Artisan Coffee Bar, Maple Dark Chocolate, or the Golden Bean-winning Hispaniola Dark Chocolate Bar.
Pro Tip: Take your chocolate treats to a nearby park or the banks of the Mississippi River for a sweet start to your day.
Stop #2: Lunch at Black Tartan Kitchen
Where: 132 Bridge St, Carleton Place, ON (View Map)
After indulging in some sweet treats, make your way to Carleton Place for a memorable lunch at Black Tartan Kitchen. This charming restaurant is a hidden gem in Lanark County, where the focus is on farm-to-table dining, with dishes that celebrate the local bounty. The ambiance is warm and inviting, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a leisurely meal.
The menu at Black Tartan Kitchen changes seasonally, highlighting the freshest ingredients from nearby farms. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared, showcasing the creativity and passion of the chefs. The restaurant’s commitment to using local produce means that every bite is a true taste of Lanark County.
- Must-Try: Begin your meal with the Black Tartan Seasonal Soup, a refreshing gazpacho inspired by the bounty of Lanark County’s summer harvest. The chilled soup, made with ripe tomatoes, is both light and flavourful, a perfect start to your dining experience. Next, the Composed Salad with Needham’s strawberries, watermelon, pickled fennel, cucumber, and Back Forty Artisan Cheese‘s feta chantilly offers a delightful mix of sweet and savoury notes, complemented by a refreshing strawberry and watermelon sorbet.
For your main course, the Lemon Spinach Tagliatelle is a must-try this time of year, offering a homey, comforting taste with its blend of sugar snaps, peas, lemon thyme, and Milkhouse Farm’s Tomme cheese- a raw sheep milk variety. If you prefer something heartier, the Pan-Seared Steelhead Trout is a flavorful and flaky option, served with locally sourced vegetables, roasted potatoes, and a tangy Stonetable Haskap Vinaigrette.
While these options might not be available when you visit, we’re sure you’ll find something equally delicious and fresh!
Pro Tip: Pair your meal with a Black Tartan Cocktail— a sweet whiskey drink that complements the flavours of the menu. The carefully curated drink selection at Black Tartan Kitchen is designed to enhance your dining experience, making each sip as enjoyable as every bite.
Stop #3: C’est Tout Bakery
Where: 20 Beckwith St N, Smiths Falls, ON (View Map)
After a satisfying lunch, it’s time to indulge your sweet tooth further with a visit to C’est Tout Bakery in Smiths Falls. This charming bakery is a paradise for pastry lovers, offering a wide variety of freshly baked goods that are as beautiful as they are delicious. The inviting atmosphere and the aroma of freshly-baked pastries make it a must-visit spot on your Lanark County adventure.
C’est Tout Bakery is known for its exquisite pastries, each crafted with the finest ingredients and a touch of artistic flair. The bakery’s display case is filled with an array of tempting treats that are perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or a special occasion.
- Must-Try: Treat yourself to a slice of their White Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake, a decadent dessert that combines the richness of white chocolate with the sweetness of fresh strawberries. For something a bit more classic, the Almond Croissant is a buttery, flaky delight filled with a sweet almond paste. If you’re in the mood for something small but packed with flavour, try the Chocolate Macaron, a delicate confection that’s crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, with a rich chocolate filling.
To complement your pastry, C’est Tout Bakery offers a selection of refreshing mocktails. The Mango + Mint Margarita is a tropical blend that’s both tangy and sweet, while the Spiced Rum Mojito (non-alcoholic) offers a minty, slightly spicy twist on a classic favourite. For coffee lovers, the Salted Caramel Iced Latte is a perfect blend of rich coffee and sweet caramel, with just a hint of salt to balance the flavours.
Pro Tip: Take a few extra pastries to go—whether you’re heading to your next stop or planning a quiet moment by the water, these sweet treats are perfect for enjoying later in the day.
Stop #4: Bridge Master’s Brewing
Where: 29 Beckwith St E, Perth, ON (View Map)
Continue your journey to Perth, where you’ll find Bridgemaster’s Brewing at the foot of Canada’s oldest metal swing bridge. This brewery is steeped in local history, and its beers reflect the rich heritage of the area.
The brewery’s location is a nod to the town’s history, where the local bridge master once lived and worked, ensuring the smooth operation of the swing bridge. Today, Bridgemaster’s Brewing invites visitors to come together and enjoy a pint while soaking in the ambiance of this historic setting.
- Must-Try: Start your tasting experience with a flight of their beers on tap, each one offering a distinct flavour profile. The Walk Don’t Run Pilsner is a light and refreshing choice, with notes of light honey, lilac, and toasted cracker, complemented by an herbal finish. For something a bit fruitier, the Raspberry Hibiscus Wheat is a delightful option, offering a combination of fruity and herbal flavours with a hint of jolly rancher sweetness.
If you prefer something richer, the Little Red Wagon Amber Ale is a great choice, featuring toasted bread notes with a caramel undertone. Finally, the Thirds a Charm IPA provides a balanced taste of papaya, orange, and tangy bitterness, making it a smooth and satisfying option for IPA lovers.
Pro Tip: Pair your beer with a snack from their menu, which offers fresh, fun, and beer-inspired items perfect for sharing. The brewery’s location near the historic swing bridge also provides a great backdrop for enjoying your drink, whether you’re seated inside or out on the patio.
Stop #5: Top Shelf Distillers
Where: 14 Warren Cres, Perth, ON (View Map)
After exploring the historical charm of Bridgemaster’s Brewing, continue your Perth adventure with a visit to Top Shelf Distillers. Known for their innovative craft spirits, this distillery is a must-visit for anyone interested in the art of distillation. Top Shelf Distillers not only produces high-quality spirits but also offers visitors a glimpse into the distilling process, making it a fascinating stop on your Lanark County journey.
The distillery prides itself on creating small-batch, handcrafted spirits using local ingredients whenever possible. Their offerings include a range of vodkas, gins, whiskies, and moonshines, each one carefully crafted to bring out unique flavours that reflect the spirit of Lanark County.
- Must-Try: During your visit, be sure to sample the Raspberry + Apple Craft Moonshine. This deliciously fruity spirit combines the tartness of raspberries with the crisp sweetness of apples, creating a refreshing and smooth drink that’s perfect on its own or mixed in a cocktail. The moonshine’s bright flavours make it an ideal summer sip, though it’s enjoyable any time of year.
Pro Tip: You can ask for a quick tour of the distillery to see the distillation process in action. It’s a great way to learn about how your favourite spirits are made. Before you leave, don’t forget to visit the retail store to pick up a bottle (or two) of your favorite spirit, along with some unique souvenirs to remember your visit.
Stop #6: Dinner at The Sterling
Where: 28 Mill St, Almonte, ON (View Map)
As your day in Lanark County winds down, head back to Almonte for a memorable dinner at The Sterling. This small, casual fine dining restaurant is nestled in a beautiful heritage building on Mill Street, adding a touch of historic charm to your dining experience.
The Sterling is known for its seasonally changing menus, which are sourced from local vendors, ensuring that every dish is fresh, flavourful, and a true reflection of the region’s culinary bounty.
The Sterling offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed evening after a day of exploring. The restaurant’s focus on using locally sourced ingredients means that each dish is not only delicious but also supports the community’s farmers and artisans.
- Must-Try: Begin your evening with one of The Sterling’s signature cocktails, such as the Passion Fruit Moonshine, a tropical and tangy drink that’s both refreshing and unique. Alternatively, a glass of Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with many of the menu’s offerings.
For your main course, the Shrimp Linguini is a standout dish, featuring jumbo shrimp cooked to perfection and served with cherry tomatoes, lemon, Thai chilli, and herbs. The combination of flavours is bright and vibrant, with just the right amount of heat.
Another excellent choice is the Scallops & Pork Belly, a dish that balances the rich, succulent pork belly with tender scallops, all served with grilled sourdough for an added crunch.
Pro Tip: After your meal, take a short one-minute walk to the Grand Falls on the Mississippi River. The falls are a stunning sight, especially at sunset, offering a peaceful end to your day.
If you’re too full to drive home after your delicious dinner, consider making it an overnight stay at the nearby inn – The Monte. This boutique inn offers upscale rooms with views over the Mississippi River, along with amenities like a hot tub, sauna, and access to kayaks and paddle boards.
Plan Your Trip to Lanark County
Ready to explore the culinary delights of Lanark County? With delicious stops and scenic views, this day trip is sure to satisfy your senses and leave you with a newfound appreciation for this charming region. Start planning your adventure today!
