Looking for a unique way to explore Ontario’s vast diversity of flavours? Craft beverages are a great place to start! All across the province, beverage producers are using local grain, fruit, and other ingredients to produce sips that are as interesting as they are tasty.
We’ve got even better news – some of Ontario’s coolest craft beverage producers are just a quick 90-minute drive from the GTA. Whether you head east of Toronto to Durham Region or north to Orillia & Lake Country, we’ve got a bevy of options to add to your itinerary! Read on or click below to jump directly to a specific destination:
Psst – Throughout this post, we’ll flag producers and restaurants that have achieved Feast On® certification. Feast On® is North America’s largest local food certification, and it verifies that a business sources their goods and ingredients from Ontario farmers and makers that have ethical and sustainable business practices. To achieve certification, restaurants work with the Culinary Tourism Alliance team to audit their receipts every year and ensure that a minimum of 25% of their food and drink expenditure goes towards locally-sourced ingredients.
East of Toronto: Durham Region
Located directly east of the GTA, Durham Region is a vast region that stretches eastward from Pickering to Newtonville, and northward from Lake Ontario to Beaverton on the shores of Lake Simcoe.
With some of the richest soil in Ontario, a lake-moderated environment for growing and strong partnerships with all partners in the supply chain, Durham boasts a thriving agriculture sector that includes the province’s top apple producer, the largest commercial blueberry grower east of Toronto and several award-winning breweries, cideries, and wineries.
Durham Region is also home to incredible farms, chefs, and retailers who use fresh, local produce to craft their food and beverage offerings.
Where is Durham Region?
Located directly east of the Greater Toronto Area, Durham Region stretches eastward from Pickering to Newtonville, and northward from Lake Ontario to Beaverton on the shores of Lake Simcoe. With eight unique area municipalities, every part of Durham Region has something new and interesting to discover!
Without further ado, let’s drive into this booming beverage scene!
Craft Beverage Producers in Durham Region
Across Durham Region, popular craft beverage producers have almost become synonymous with particular towns and cities because of their commitment to representing and serving their respective communities. Here are some of the very best beer, wine, and cider makers who rep hard for their hometowns:
Town Brewery
Where: 1632 Charles St, Whitby, ON L1N 1B9 (View map)
Town Brewery was founded in 2017 with a simple goal in mind: to make better beer and build a stronger community. Either years in, they’re doing just that. In addition to their classic lagers, modern pale ales and punchy IPAs, the Town team often releases creative new beers to bring beer drinkers a unique and unforgettable experience. The taproom serves a full menu, and with Easy Tiger non-alcoholic lager on the menu, there truly is something for everyone in your group.
Mark your calendars: The Town Brewery Pump House on the shores on Lake Ontario is returning for a third season in May 2025! This wonderful waterfront spot is a great place to enjoy a few beverages paired with tasty bites from the on-site food truck. Families and well-behaved dogs are welcome!
The Second Wedge Brewing Co.
Where: 14 Victoria St, Uxbridge, ON L9P 1B1 (View map)
You’ll find The Second Wedge in the heart of downtown Uxbridge, just across from the York-Durham Heritage Railway and its collection of abandoned (but cool!) train carriages. The brewery is named after the second wedge of the Oak Ridges Moraine, a feature of Ontario’s Greenbelt.
Inside the brewery, you’ll find a bright and welcoming two-level space packed with local art, fun games, and of course – tasty beer! Bring in food from a local restaurant or order wood-fired pizza from Foundry Pi (reopening on May 17th).
Two Blokes Cider
Where: 21300 Simcoe St, Seagrave, ON L9L 1B4 (View map)
The story of Two Blokes Cider dates back to 2011, when the “Two Blokes” in question (Matt and Andy) returned to Canada after living and working in England. Inspired by their time away, they began learning, creating, planting, and planning. By 2015, they had launched Two Blokes Cider, a small-scale, sustainable, community focused, farm-based craft cidery on the family farm where Matt’s love for farming was born.
In 2023, Old Flame Brewing Co. acquired Two Blokes Cider to expand their shared values: a love of community, tourism, brand experience and a mutual belief in the growth of Port Perry and the Township of Scugog. That’s great news for visitors who want to check out both spots: in the summer, a trolley runs between both locations, taking you from town to farm in just 8 minutes!
Old Flame Brewing Co.
Where: 135 Perry St, Port Perry, ON L9L 1B8 (View map)
Old Flame Brewing Co. is Canada’s Most Awarded Craft Lager Brewery – a big honour in such a classic and beloved category! Their flagship location in Port Perry is inside a historical building that was originally built in 1874 and began as the Ontario Carriage Works. Whether you stop by for a couple of beer flights and live music, a tour to hear the history and process of Old Flame, or to simply pick up a few cans to go, you’re sure to have an experience worth remembering.
In 2023, Old Flame Brewing Co. acquired Two Blokes Cider to expand their shared values: a love of community, tourism, brand experience and a mutual belief in the growth of Port Perry and the Township of Scugog. That’s great news for visitors who want to check out both spots: in the summer, a trolley runs between both locations, taking you from town to farm in just 8 minutes!
Tilted Glass Brewing Co.
Where: 160 Baseline Rd E, Bowmanville, ON L1C 1A2 (View map)
Tilted Glass Brewing Co is a small-batch craft brewery located in historic downtown Bowmanville, Ontario. Located in an old industrial building, Tilted Glass has become known for hop-forward brews and fun experimental batches. The only thing that tops their love of drinking great craft beer is their passion for making it!
Families and well-behaved dogs are welcome inside and outside (the seasonal patio has lots of space for groups). Tilted Glass serves small snacks, and you’re also welcome to bring your own food from local businesses to enjoy on-site.
Slabtown Cider Co.
Where: 4559 Concession 6, Uxbridge, ON L9P 0K7 (View map)
Founded in 2017, Slabtown Cider Co. is a family-owned and operated cidery and orchard located on the Oak Ridges Moraine, near Uxbridge’s Second Wedge Brewing Co. The Slabtown team has been working to transform over 90 acres of historic fields into one of Canada’s largest collections of unique heritage heirloom apple cider varieties.
The on-site eatery is open Wednesday-Sunday and serves a variety of small plates and tasty mains, with a kids’ menu for little ones. Ask your server for a recommended cider or beer pairing to complement your meal. Slabtown Cider Co. is Feast On® certified!
Applewood Farm & Winery
Where: 2055 Saintfield Rd, Sunderland, ON L0C 1H0 (View map)
Travel halfway between Lake Scugog and Lake Simcoe and you’ll find yourself in Sunderland, where Applewood Farm & Winery has been producing unique, award winning fruit wines, cider and meade for almost 25 years. Their wines are made from fruit and honey harvested right on the farm, as well as fruit supplied by other local growers.
In the summer, families can enjoy strawberry picking in the fields. Afterwards, head over to the patio to try one of their award-winning meades or the unique wild blueberry cider. Note: Applewood Farm & Winery is open from May-December. Check their social feeds for up-to-date seasonal hours.
All or Nothing Brewhouse
Where: 439 Ritson Rd S, Oshawa, ON L1H 5J8 (View map)
All or Nothing is run by two brothers, Eric and Jeff, who decided they’d stop at nothing to make their dream a reality. Located in an old 1950s beer store in the heart of Oshawa, this funky brewery with eye-catching bright yellow branding is a perfect stop to add to your beverage tour of Durham Region.
On the premises, you’ll find a sizeable outdoor patio, a bright yellow beerhall, the taproom and bottle shop, and the production brewery. The fridges are stocked with Neal Brothers chips and salsa that perfectly complement their lineup of beer and hard seltzers.
Lightcaster Brewery and Taphouse
Where: 164 Baseline Rd E, Bowmanville, ON L1C 1A2 (View map)
The founding team behind Lightcaster Brewery brings together a wealth of experience and a shared passion for innovation. These passionate entrepreneurs have built Lightcaster Brewery on a foundation of creativity, health-consciousness, and a commitment to delivering exceptional craft beer experiences.
Stop by the taphouse to enjoy a full menu of pizzas, sandwiches, and meal-sized salads that pair perfectly with a crisp, cold beer such as their flagship Goldie “Kolsch”, a take on a classic German beer that embodies the essence of tradition and easy-drinking enjoyment.
Chronicle Brewing Taphouse
Where: 21 Celina St, Oshawa, ON L1H 4M9 (View map)
Chronicle Brewing Co. has been crafting great beer and good times in Durham Region since 2018. Founded by three best friends who met while attending Durham College in Oshawa, Chronicle brings together a love for craft beer, community, and pop culture with the nerdiest, laugh-provoking labels around.
Chronicle’s Bowmanville Brewery and Taproom is a dog-friendly space where guests can enjoy a wide variety of craft beers, brewery tours, and a welcoming atmosphere. The newly-opened Oshawa Taphouse—conveniently located just steps from the Tribute Communities Centre—features the same great beer lineup, plus a food menu to fuel your adventures!
5 Paddles Brewing Company
Where: 1390 Hopkins St Unit #3, Whitby, ON L1N 2C3 (View map)
5 Paddles Brewing Company opened their doors in Whitby in 2013, and since then, they have brewed over 350 unique beers! Their name pays homage to the five essential elements that make their beer stand out – quality, creativity, community, sustainability, and, of course, flavour.
The taproom is open Tuesday-Sunday and offers live music, family-friendly games, and a range of cold beer on tap. On the food side, you’ll find shareable favourites like nachos, charcuterie boards, pizzas and more. Stop by 5 Paddles to see why this brewery is a Durham Region institution!
Craft Cocktails to Enjoy in Durham Region
With so many craft beer and cider producers across the region, it’s easy to forget that Durham Region is also home to several bars and restaurants that have perfected the art of craft cocktails. Here are a few stops to check out on your next visit:
The Springwood
Where: 1645 Dundas St E Unit #1, Whitby, ON L1N 2K9 (View map)
The Springwood is one of Whitby’s best neighbourhood restaurants, and it’s easy to see why; since opening their doors in May 2023, Chef Matthew Simpson and General Manager Jasmine Lee have been focusing on serving locally-sourced ingredients in a warm, home-style atmosphere that charms guests from the very first minute. The cocktail list changes with the seasons and each offering includes interesting ingredients, like orgeat (a sweet syrup made with almonds and flower water), maple-smoked salt, rhubarb bitters, and Pluck Teas. Most cocktails are available zero-proof, so your designated driver can join in on the fun. The Springwood is Feast On® certified!
Three Six Kitchen
Where: 36 King St E, Bowmanville, ON L1C 1N2 (View map)
Executive Chef and Owner, Michael McKay, is a Red Seal, award-winning chef with a diverse culinary background that is reflected in the diverse yet focused menu at Three Six Kitchen. On the cocktail side, enjoy perfected classics like margaritas and whiskey sours or opt for unique creations, like gin or bourbon cocktails made with house-made spiced honey syrup.
Surf Kitchen
Where: 116 Dundas St W, Whitby, ON L1N 2L9 (View map)
Tacos and other small plates are on the menu at Surf Kitchen, a bright space with SoCal vibes in downtown Whitby. Their weekly cocktail feature is a chance to try something totally new and unexpected. Recent Instagram-worthy creations include the Strawberry Rosé Margarita, a beautiful pink Tequila Raspberry Sour, and a Pomegranate Ranch Water made with tequila, Cointreau, pomegranate syrup, lime juice, and topped with soda and a salt/sugar rim.
BOND|ST Snack Bar
Where: 44 Bond St E Second Floor, Oshawa, ON L1G 1B1 (View map)
Located in downtown Oshawa (just a couple of blocks from the Tribute Communities Centre), BOND|ST Snack Bar is a go-to spot for delicious pizza, shareable small plates, and local craft beer in a vibrant, casual setting. The cocktail list doesn’t disappoint, either: the menu has something for every tastebud, whether you’re feeling spicy (try the pineapple margarita) or classic (order the Main Squeeze, made with gin, vermouth, and lemon).
The Port Social
Where: 189 Queen St, Port Perry, ON L9L 1B9 (View map)
The Port Social is about making memories over tapa and great drinks. The cocktail menu is filled with intriguing concoctions, like the lavender rosé lemonade, pear & pom bellini, or a drink called the “Much-Needed Vacation,” which will transport you to tropical climes with its mix of bourbon, Madagascar vanilla, Dillon’s peach schnapps, vermouth, and orange bitters.
Fig Kitchen & Market
Where: 29 Toronto St S, Uxbridge, ON L9P 1V9 (View map)
Fig Kitchen & Market is a quaint, local gem featuring the best of local produce, meats and libations. Their small-but-mighty cocktail list features interesting twists on classic favourites, like a bourbon sour with cranberry and orange or a margarita with apple cider and a cinnamon sugar rim. Fig Kitchen & Market is Feast On® certified!
PORT Restaurant
Where: 1289 Wharf St Bay Ridges, Pickering, ON L1W 1A2 (View map)
PORT is anchored (no pun intended) by Owner Tom Mantis and Head Chef Ross Collier, a respected chef from Vancouver, BC. The handcrafted menu is a reflection of Chef Collier’s West Coast roots and training and features lots of fresh seafood and fresh pasta. Enjoy the beautiful lakeside view with a French 75 (Gordon’s gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup & prosecco) or a Blackberry Mint Julep (Four Roses bourbon, muddled blackberry mint syrup, lemon juice & soda water, fresh mint & blackberries). Cheers!
North of Toronto: Orillia + Lake Country
Get ready to dine, sip, and taste your way through Orillia & Lake Country, located just 90 minutes north of Toronto! Orillia & Lake Country is known as the culinary capital of Ontario’s cottage country, and the region’s offerings are inspired by international flavours and the bounty of the local community.
Commonly known as the Sunshine City, Orillia boasts extensive waterfront trails and parks, a thriving arts and culture scene and a charming historic downtown teeming with excellent shopping and dining choices. Orillia’s surrounding Lake Country is a magnet for water sports, fishing, cottaging and swimming. The waterways connect to the historic Trent-Severn Waterway and sailboats, motorboats and houseboats fill the port and harbour.
Touring foodies, start your engines: the region’s chefs and food purveyors invite you to hit the road and explore their delicious menus.
How do I get to Orillia & Lake Country?
Orillia & Lake Country is easily accessible from destinations across Ontario and the Northeastern United States! Here is the approximate drive time:
- From Toronto: 135km | 84 miles
- From Sudbury: 272km | 169 miles
- From Ottawa: 398km | 247 miles
- From Windsor: 475km | 295 miles
- From Niagara: 240km | 149 miles
- From Buffalo, New York: 274km | 170 miles
- From Detroit, Michigan: 483km | 300 miles
Craft Beverage Producers in Orillia & Lake Country
Quayle’s Brewery
Where: 4567 Line 12 N, Coldwater, ON L0K 1E0 (View map)
Right in the heart of Oro-Medonte, just ten minutes from Orillia, Quayle’s Brewery is a stop for those looking to discover the art of craft brewing while enjoying the rustic charm of farm life. The brewery was built in 2016 as a re-creation of the Musical Barn, a 19th century local landmark that stood for over a century before being torn down in the 1970s.
Today, the beautiful barn is surrounded by 12 acres of flourishing hop-yards that allow the Quayle’s Brewery team to make good on their farm-to-glass philosophy. Stop by the taproom to try one of their 14 rotating taps, or opt for a flight to sample a few core, seasonal & speciality brews.
Woodfolk Cider
Where: 1151 Warminster Sideroad, Coldwater, ON L0K 1E0 (View map)
At Woodfolk Cider, the philosophy is simple: Great apples make great cider! This new cidery in Oro-Medonte has apples at their core. Growing apples on their home farm and two neighbouring farms with 56 different varieties and counting. Visit the cidery and their farm store for a tasting and enjoy beautiful orchard vistas while you sip the finest farm-to-glass cider.
Couchiching Craft Brewing Co.
Where: 162 Mississaga St E, Orillia, ON L3V 1V9 (View map)
You’ll find Couchiching Craft Brewing Co. in Downtown Orillia, where the brewery is a quintessential destination for those seeking a rich craft experience unlike any other. Just steps from the shores of Lake Couchiching, Couchiching Craft Brewing Co is your go-to destination for quality food, beer, events and more! CCBC’s cutting-edge production system allows them to brew both large and small-scale batches of award-winning craft beer.
The taproom offers a full eat-in and bar experience which extends to the patio — one of the largest in Downtown Orillia. Red Seal Chef, Brandon, transforms local and fresh ingredients into delectable bites that pair perfectly with our selection of beer, wine, and cocktails.
Heritage Estate Winery & Cidery
Where: 421 Penetanguishene Rd, Barrie, ON L4M 0H1 (View map)
Heritage Estate Winery & Cidery is Barrie’s only boutique winery and cidery. Located in the heart of Simcoe County, Heritage Estate offers beverages uniquely crafted with 100% Ontario apples. The sprawling estate includes a century farmhouse, tasting room, contemporary wedding venue and state-of-the-art on-site processing facility. Their retail store opens for the season in April, and guided tours and tastings will be available.
Exploring Orillia & Lake Country’s Cafe Scene
Em’s Cafe
Where: 16 Coldwater Rd, Coldwater, ON L0K 1E0 (View map)
In downtown Coldwater, Em’s Café features great coffee, grilled sandwiches, and gourmet baked goods in a cozy classic café. In the summer, their outdoor patio sparkles under a rainbow of colourful umbrellas. This cycling friendly café also features boutique items featuring locally made products.
Cabin Trading Post
Where: 3270 Port Severn Rd, Severn, ON L0K 1S0 (View map)
The hidden gem of Port Severn, The Cabin Trading Post is the epitome of a cottage country café. A curated experience of premium coffee & tea, quality comfort food, Cabin cocktails & craft beers in a cozy Cabin by the water in Port Severn. Chill on the patio, dine inside or take your Cabin provisions on your adventure to go.
Apple Annie’s Cafe
Where: 101 Mississaga St E, Orillia, ON L3V 1V6 (View map)
Apple Annie’s Café serves signature espresso based drinks, freshly-baked pastries and cakes as well as homemade soups, stews, biscuits, fresh salads, quiche, sandwiches, grilled paninis and assorted flatbreads. The cafe recognizes those with gluten allergies and plant-based diets and serves a wide variety of healthy options for everyone. The cafe also acts as a community hub hosting several local and Canadian artists, as well as free community events for all.
Mark IV Brothers Coffee Roasters
Where: 187 Nottawasaga St, Orillia, ON L3V 3K2 (View map)
Mark IV Brothers Roasters is a coffee haven in Orillia, where they stand out for their dedication to the art of high-quality coffee roasting. The name comes from the Mark IV tank used in World War I and symbolizes the roastery’s strong presence in the community. Their cozy and inviting café provides the perfect atmosphere for friends and neighbors to gather, relax, and enjoy their favorite brew. Stop by for a coffee and a chat to learn from their knowledgeable staff!
Lone Wolf Cafe
Where: 10 Matchedash St S, Orillia, ON L3V 4W3 (View map)
This stylish café is a must-see attraction in Downtown Orillia, located just across the street from Couchiching Craft Brewing Co. This friendly specialty coffee shop has a warm atmosphere with summer outdoor dog-friendly patio. Be sure to stick around for Lone Wolf After Dark events, where the café switches from coffee to cocktails with specialty menus, themed evenings and live music.
Sweet Treats to Savour in Orillia & Lake Country
DWN Craft Chocolatier
Where: 21 Peter St S, Orillia, ON L3V 5A8 (View map)
A sensation for the senses, DWN Craft Chocolatier has a chocolate flavour for every occasion. To all the midnight stargazers, to the courageous cat herders and campfire singer-songwriters. To the up-all-night vinyl listeners and ice cream truck chasers. To the Olympic dock divers, marathon fiction readers, and tour-de-town bike riders we salute you. Dawn Nita has made a collection of delicious chocolate in flavours that are fun, comforting and familiar, for all your everyday adventures. Visit her storefront nestled in downtown Orillia where chocolate is handcrafted on site!
Chelsea Chocolates
Where: 3239 Penetanguishene Rd, Barrie, ON L4M 4Y8 (View map)
Chelsea Chocolates was started in 1995 by two friends with a desire to create “melt in your mouth” chocolates using fresh cream, butter, high quality ingredients and the finest Belgian chocolate. While ownership has changed since then, Chelsea Chocolates’ philosophy of great chocolate remains. Stop into their storefront in Craighurst, Oro-Medonte, just off Hwy 400 and pick up a delectable treat.
Coco’s Cookies
Where: 425 West Street N, Orillia, ON L3V 7R2 (View map)
Coco’s Cookies is a small, family-owned boutique bakery specializing in cookies and squares, biscuits, and much more! Everything is made from scratch, with love and a pinch of entrepreneurial spirit. Stop by for a cookie pick-me-up or order a cake to celebrate a special occasion (or just because).
Copperpot Nuts
Where: 2 Gray St, Coldwater, ON L0K 1E0 (View map)
Copperpot Nuts began as a garage start-up in rural Coldwater back in 2009, where they started with just three varieties of beer nuts. Today, they operate their own production facility near Coldwater and offer close to twenty delicious flavours in the shop. The team sources as many ingredients as we can from local producers and all of their nuts are double-roasted and packaged by hand in small batches. Pick up a beer nut tray to bring to your next picnic or potluck and you’re guaranteed to be the hit of the party!
Discover Ontario’s Culinary Destinations
Ontario’s food identity is a rich mosaic of foodways. It’s made up of locally grown foods, innovative artisans and hardworking farmers, all intermingled with unique traditions grafted together by people that came here from around the world. Ready to discover what makes Ontario a world-class culinary destination? Click here to get started!
