Ontario is home to some truly delicious destinations, and finding your next getaway that warms both your heart and your belly is just a short drive away. The County of Brant is the perfect choice for a cozy winter escape. With its welcoming culinary scene and vibrant craft beverage offerings, this picturesque region provides an inviting retreat from the winter chill.
Whether you’re craving sweet treats, hearty meals, or expertly crafted beverages, Brant has everything you need for a memorable winter experience. Bundle up and prepare to savour the cozy flavours of this charming destination. Here’s how you can spend a day (or two) indulging in comfort food and craft beverages while exploring the very best Brant has to offer.
Start Your Day with Brantview Apples and Howell Road Cider
Begin your adventure at Brantview Apples & Cider, where a warm welcome and delicious treats await. This family-run farm is renowned for its fresh bakery goods and artisan ciders. Howell Road Cider, crafted on-site, provides the perfect introduction to Brant’s local flavours, and vibrant craft beverage scene.
Although apple season may be over, the crisp, balanced taste of Howell Road Cider is the perfect complement to the farm’s from-scratch baked goods. Treat yourself to a delightful morning pick-me-up with offerings like tarts, cider doughnuts, jams, jellies, and more! Before you go just keep in mind that Brantview Apples is only open Saturdays, so plan accordingly to enjoy all that this farm and cidery has to offer.
Lunch Break at Drongkowski’s
For a lunch that combines hearty comfort with creative flair, make your way to Drongkowski’s. This beloved spot located in downtown St. George, is known for its handcrafted sandwiches and friendly atmosphere.
Whether you opt for a classic favourite like the “Great Avocadowski,” stacked with smoked Ontario bacon, mayo, havarti, tomato, lettuce, avocado, and jazzed up with a some chicken for a heartier bite.
For a bolder flavour combination try the “Montreal Smoke” filled with beef brisket, and topped with house made vodka infused raspberry thyme mustard, and sauerkraut. Don’t forget to pair your sandwich with one of their thick, creamy shakes for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Sip and Snack at Flux Brewing
Continue exploring Brant’s craft beverage scene with a visit to Flux Brewing. Known for their unique brews sample a flight with standout options like Kaleidoscope, a tangy cherry lemonade sour; Medulla, a light and crushable lager; and Spellbound, a rich stout with roasty notes of coffee and chocolate. If you’re still peckish pair your drinks with delicious bites from Mana, their onsite kitchen, for a perfectly paired sip and snack experience.
Refuel at Detour Cafe at Paris Wincey Mills
For a midday fuel-up, stop by Detour Cafe at Paris Wincey Mills. This cozy spot offers locally-roasted coffee and delicious snacks to keep your energy up as you explore Brant County. While you’re there, take the opportunity to shop around and stock up on local produce and artisanal goods inside the bustling food hall. Offerings at the food hall include local vendors selling gourmet popcorn and baked goods, along with fresh meats, cheeses, and ready to eat options, making it a delicious addition to your itinerary.
Savour Cozy Sips and Bites at Paris Beer Co.
For those eager to continue their craft beverage journey, head next door to Paris Beer Co., where family heritage and innovation blend seamlessly. This brewery uses hops grown on their family farm in Paris, ON, to craft beers that are as flavourful as they are unique, including the approachable Salty Stinger, a great choice for new beer enthusiasts.
Enjoy a flight to sample their diverse offerings, or settle in for a comforting meal from their kitchen. Cozy up with hearty dishes like the Roasted Chicken Supreme with chorizo and parsnip cassoulet, or shareable plates like the Crispy Fish Tacos with cilantro mango salsa topped with chipotle crema. With its welcoming vibe, dedication to quality, and farm-to-glass brews, Paris Beer Co. is a must-visit for beer lovers and foodies.
Sweeten Your Day at Chocolate Sensations
As you explore downtown Paris, take a moment to visit Chocolate Sensations, a haven for anyone with a sweet tooth. This charming shop specializes in handcrafted chocolates and truffles. Build a custom box of treats to enjoy during your trip or to take home as a reminder of your visit. While you’re there, be sure to browse the other boutique shops in downtown Paris to complete your afternoon adventure.
Unwind at The Paris Inn
Before heading to dinner, unwind with a cocktail or mocktail at The Paris Inn. This inviting spot offers a sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance, making it the perfect place to transition from a day of exploration to an evening of fine dining. Sip on a beautifully crafted beverages like their espresso martini or cranberry fizz mocktail while reflecting on the highlights of your adventures in Brant.
Warm up at Juniper Dining Co.
End your wintery day of adventure with a cozy fine-dining experience at Juniper Dining Co., where exceptional cuisine meets a carefully curated VQA wine list. Chef and owner Andrea Legacey highlights locally sourced ingredients in every dish, creating a menu that balances comfort and sophistication. Indulge in dishes like the Braised Lamb Shank with beluga lentils, mushrooms, lardons, cipollini onions, and veal demi.
For an extra treat, try the Loaded Bone Marrow platter with roasted garlic, caramelized onions, blue cheese, and breadcrumbs. Finish your evening with a classic Crème Brûlée, its creamy vanilla bean custard topped with a perfectly burnt sugar crust.
With its inviting ambiance and attention to detail, Juniper Dining Co. promises a memorable dining experience. And starting this March, the restaurant will be relocating closer to downtown Paris, making it even more accessible for future visits.
Embrace the Warmth of Brant County
Brant County’s culinary and craft beverage scene offers the perfect combination of warmth, flavour, and hospitality. Whether you’re enjoying the crisp cider at Brantview Apples, the indulgent shakes at Drongkowski’s, or the fine dining experience at Juniper Dining Co., every moment of your journey promises to be deliciously memorable. So, bundle up, hit the road, and savour Brant this winter!
