Winter in Ontario is a great time to relax and enjoy the season’s slower pace. It’s a perfect opportunity to plan easy, relaxed travel that allows you to discover a new side of the province without lifting a finger. But how, you may wonder? Travel requires so much research and planning!
We’ve got a secret weapon to share with you: food trails. With a tailored food trail, all the research and heavy lifting has already been done for you, so all that’s left is to choose a destination, grab your coziest winter clothes, and let the trail take you on a delicious adventure.
Today, we’re sharing three of Ontario’s best wintertime food trail adventures. Keep scrolling or click below to jump directly to a specific destination:
- Exploring the Diverse Landscape of Windsor-Essex with the Follow the Flavours Trail
- Savouring the Flavours of Hamilton Halton Brant Along the True Brew Path
- Discovering Georgian Bay’s Tasty Winter Adventures with the Apple Pie Trail
Exploring the Diverse Landscape of Windsor-Essex with the Follow the Flavours Trail
Windsor-Essex, in southwestern Ontario, is surrounded by water on three sides – Lake Erie to the south, the Detroit River to the west and Lake St. Clair to the north. The city of Winsor is perched on the edge of the Detroit River along the border with the United States, where Detroit’s Art Deco skyline rises high above the water on the other side. The surrounding County of Essex is a robust agricultural and manufacturing hub that is also home to several distilleries and wineries.
Wondering if you should put Windsor-Essex on your winter travel list? What if we told you that this area is the warmest county in the province? The regional climate is heavily influenced by all that water, and the temperature hits 10C or higher more than 220 days per year. On a frigid day in Ontario, it just might be short-sleeve weather in Windsor-Essex!
There’s one more thing that you should know about Windsor-Essex – Windsor is home to an exceptionally diverse population. 1 in 4 residents in this region are immigrants from South America, the Middle East, South Asia, East Asia and elsewhere. Newcomers to Canada bring with them cultural traditions and cuisines that are near and dear to their hearts.
Thanks to the Follow The Flavours Multicultural Food Trail, you can travel around the world without leaving Windsor-Essex. This experiential self-guided food tour that will take you on a journey of history, community traditions and exceptional cuisine from around the world. Ready to start exploring? Here are a few stops to check out along the way:
Mexican Cuisine
Cafe Amor & Art
Where: 1464 Ottawa St., Windsor, ON (View map) and 473 Notre Dame St, Belle River, ON (View map)
Café Amor & Art is a small family endeavour turning out delicious specialty coffees: espresso drinks, matchas, chai, hot chocolate, iced drinks, and more. On the menu, you’ll find Mexican sandwiches, soups, burritos, pastries, and their famous tres leches cake and caramel flan. The cafes are adorned with Latin American art, books, paintings, pottery, and colourful local art to create a cozy, quaint, and warm atmosphere where customers can relax and feel at home.
El Diablo
Where: 16 Main St. W., Kingsville, ON (View map)
El Diablo is a restaurant that is described by the owners as “having no limits.” Both John and Bridgette have been working in the culinary arts and hospitality industries since they were teenagers. With both Bridgette’s certification as a Red Seal Chef, and John’s degree in business management, they saw an opportunity to create something completely unique in their hometown.
At the heart of El Diablo is a blend of Asian and Latin American inspirations. The menu has dishes inspired by food from Asia, Mexico, and South America. While they may find inspiration for their food across the globe, they try to ensure that their ingredients are locally sourced whenever possible. Try the Taiwanese Pork Belly Bao Buns, Tuna Tartare tacos, or Thai Basil Fried Rice Bowl – yum!
Cancunsito Mexican Cuisine
Where: 69 Erie St. N, Leamington, ON (View map)
Cancunsito (little Cancun) is a Mexican restaurant in Leamington, southeast of Windsor. Owner Israel Morales noticed an absence in traditional Mexican cuisine in the area and launched Cancunsito as a way to introduce authentic cuisine to the community. Every member of the Cancunsito staff is Mexican, and they are passionate about ensuring that the food they create is as it would be in Mexico. Not sure where to start? Ask your server for a recommendation!
Salsa Caliente
Where: 275 Erie St. S, Leamington, ON (View map)
Salsa Caliente is a family-owned and operated restaurant in Leamington, ON. The team sources ingredients locally wherever possible and have worked hard to maintain strong relationships with small suppliers in the community. Take a trip to Mexico with their superb selection of fresh traditional fare.
The Grand Cantina
Where: 1968 Wyandotte St. E., Windsor, ON (View map)
In 2023, The Grand Cantina relocated to the Walkerville neighbourhood of Windsor for more space to do what they do best – tacos! Choose from a delicious list of favourites like Barbacoa (slow roasted beef), Carnitas (shredded smoked pork), chicken, duck, shrimp, fish, and vegan options like jackfruit, smoked tofu, and plant-based chorizo. This is a great spot to enjoy a lively meal with a few friends.
East Asian Cuisine
Shanghai Bistro
Where: 2045 Wyandotte St W, Windsor, ON (View map)
Shanghai Bistro Owner & Chef Chester Huang has been cooking a variety of authentic Chinese cuisine for over 6 years. It has always been Chester’s passion to cook; after moving to Canada, he worked in the culinary arts in Toronto before moving to Windsor to start his own restaurant. With Shanghai Bistro, Chester strives to bring something new to the region, with authentic dishes that will give visitors a new understanding of his culture, different from that of Western Chinese cuisine.
Shanghai Bistro is known for a variety of different dishes, but their most popular is their incredible dumplings. Made completely from scratch and perfectly hand-crafted, they make for a delicious meal. In addition to their dumplings, Shanghai Bistro also has a large menu, filled with a variety of rice, stir fry, noodle dishes, and more.
Thai Palace
Where: 1140 Lauzon Rd., Windsor, ON (View map)
Ray Anderson grew up in Thailand, where she would frequently watch her mother cook incredible dishes for her and her family. Her mother’s passion for food was passed down to her and inspired her to open Thai Palace in Windsor-Essex. Ray has spent years studying Thai cuisine, going so far as to visit Thailand again to study Pad Thai recipes in order to ensure the maximum flavour and authenticity.
The menu at Thai Palace is designed to give visitors a taste of Thailand in an accessible way. Every dish has a recommended local wine pairing, so it’s easy to have a fun and delicious dining experience.
Funky Chow Kitchen
Where: 2090 Wyandotte Street E, Windsor, ON (View map)
Since 2021, Funky Chow Kitchen has been creating some of the best and most unique Asian dishes in the Windsor-Essex area! From their Karaage to their Bao, to their incredible sushi, Funky Chow Kitchen offers a wide selection of mouth watering Asian cuisine. While their dishes are rooted in traditional Asian culinary techniques and recipes, the chefs at Funky Chow Kitchen are given freedom to create and experiment with new dishes and ideas, so you’re sure to find an interesting new twist on the menu.
Erie Street Gastropub
Where: 839 Erie St E, Windsor, ON (View map)
Erie Street Gastropub is a hidden gem in the Walkerville neighbourhood of Windsor. The menu focuses on Asian fusion dishes, with dishes and flavours from Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Japan, China and Korea all coming together to create flavourful mains: think elevated pub fare with a twist, like Pad Thai, Brisket Burger and Stacked Sushi. The beverage menu is loaded with a rotating selection of 60+ Ontario craft beers, local Ontario wines and delectable handcrafted cocktails.
South Asian Cuisine
India 47
Where: 1640 Lesperance Rd., Tecumseh, ON (View map)
With over 37 styles of cuisine in India, owner Varun Kapoor hopes to give diners a chance to try something they’ve never had before. The team at India 47 is passionate about great food, drinks and community. Varun has spent most of his life working in the hospitality industry and loves running a restaurant, as it allows him to share his culture with new and different people every day.
On the menu, you’ll find a large variety of authentic Indian cuisine crafted with the freshest and highest-quality ingredients. India 47 is split into two sections: the bar section serves fusion food inspired by Indian ingredients, like their Indian Pizzas, Nachos, and Tacos, while the dining room serves an array of spicy and savoury dishes like Butter Chicken, Biryani, and Malai Kofta.
India Paradise
Where: 1459 Ottawa St., Windsor, ON (View map)
India Paradise is a locally owned and operated Indian restaurant that focuses on serving authentic Indian food to the Windsor-Essex area. Operator Harish Gudavalli has always loved food and the joy that it can bring to others, as such he strives to make his restaurant a place where anyone can enjoy his culture’s dishes.
The menu at India Paradise is packed with delicious flavours: curry dishes, Biryani, samosas, and more. Harish and his staff have adapted their traditional recipes to maintain their authentic flavour without as much spice, so if you’re unfamiliar with Indian cuisine, this is a great place to start.
Middle Eastern Cuisine
Windsor Palace
Where: 755 Wyandotte St E, Windsor, ON (View map) or 12 Amy Croft Dr., Tecumseh, ON (View map)
Nestled in the heart of Windsor, Ontario, Windsor Palace Restaurant is your go-to destination for an unforgettable journey through the rich and diverse landscape of Iraqi cuisine. Step inside and discover an authentic taste of Iraq: Iraqi Kabob, which is made from a mixture of ground lamb and beef, or the fan-favorite Chicken Cream Chop (ask your server about this dish!).
Yalla Nakol
Where: 4112 Walker Rd, Windsor, ON (View map)
Yalla Nakol is a fast casual Middle Eastern restaurant that serves a taste of Palestine to the Windsor community. Try the maqlouba, a traditional Levantine dish that consists of meat, rice, and fried vegetables placed in a pot that is flipped upside down when served. For a twist on a Canadian classic, the Yalla poutine is made with crispy fresh-cut fries smothered in a rich vegetarian gravy and melted cheese curds and topped with their famous chicken shawarma.
Tabouli by Eddy’s
Where: 1614 Lesperance Rd., Tecumseh, ON (View map)
After five successful years working alongside his father at Eddy’s Mediterranean Bistro, Eddy Hammoud struck out on his own to open Tabouli by Eddy’s, with a focus on Lebanese cuisine.
At Tabouli, you’ll discover a wide range of tantalizing and healthy Lebanese dishes, including their homestyle grilled meats marinated in traditional all-natural spices, herbs and sauces, delicious salads, warm homemade flat breads and succulent sweet pastries. As part of the mission to create a high-end Lebanese dining experience, Tabouli by Eddy’s exclusively uses fresh, quality meats and produce.
Firdous Lebanese Grill
Where: 4 Wellington St., Leamington, ON (View map)
Chef Ahmad Sous has been working in the restaurant industry since 1995. The menu at Firdous Lebanese Grill strongly reflects Ahmad’s passion for supporting local farms and businesses, and the kitchen uses locally-sourced produce to turn out fresh and deliciously-authentic Lebanese cuisine. Ahmad hopes that his restaurant can be a pillar in the local Lebanese community, acting as a space in which people can find dishes that remind them of home and make them happy!
Italian & Mediterranean Cuisine
Vittorio’s Trattoria
Where: 3115 Forest Glade Dr, Windsor, ON (View map)
A trattoria is an Italian-style establishment focused on traditional local food. Vittorio’s Trattoria takes diners on a journey through Italy’s diverse regions: Neapolitan pizzas, pastas in every shape and flavour, and tasty main dishes that celebrate the rich tapestry of Italian cuisine.
Eddy’s Mediterranean Bistro
Where: 420 Tecumseh Rd. E, Windsor, ON (View map)
Since he was 14 years old, Eddy Hammoud has been working in the food industry. Eddy’s time working in restaurants helped him develop a strong passion for food, and in 2014, he and his father opened Eddy’s Mediterranean Bistro.
Today, Eddy’s is a family-owned and operated business specializing in authentic Mediterranean dishes. Enjoy tasty homemade dishes for lunch or dinner in the beautiful dining room, where the ambiance, music, and lighting set the stage for a memorable meal.
Mezzo Ristorante & Lounge
Where: 804 Erie St. S, Windsor, ON (View map)
With a menu filled with gourmet Italian dishes and a wine list featuring incredible reds and whites from both local and Italian wineries, Mezzo strives to create a high-end Italian cuisine experience like no other. The menu takes inspiration from both Northern and Southern Italy as well as nouveau Italian cuisine. Ingredients are sourced from local seafood markets, farms, and butchers with the goal of creating a memorable and delicious dining experience.
Mettawas Station Italian Mediterranean Grill
Where: 169 Lansdowne Ave., Kingsville, ON (View map)
Mettawas Station was constructed in the late 19th century as a means to bring passengers from Windsor to the Mettawas Hotel in Kingsville. While the train station may no longer be in use, Owner and Chef Anthony Del Brocco found a new purpose for the incredible property; Anthony loves to cook, and chose Mettawas Station as his restaurant’s home.
Mettawas Station focuses on Mediterranean dishes, which means that you’ll spot influences from Italy, Greece, Lebanon, and North Africa. Their award-winning “Trainwreck” sandwich is a towering combination of breaded veal cutlets, tomato sauce, provolone cheese, peppers, mushrooms, and onions on a fluffy ciabatta roll.
More International Cuisines
Stelly’s Cuisine & Catering (Jamaican)
Where: 425 Tecumseh Road West, Windsor, ON (View map)
Open the door to Stelly’s Cuisine and Catering and you’ll be met with the flavours and spices of Jamaica and the Caribbean. Owners Steve and Monique Bramwell have crafted a menu that is filled with traditional Jamaican dishes and Canadian-Jamaican fusion favourites like the fan favourite Jamaican Jerk Chicken Poutine, a must-try reimagination of Canada’s classic dish.
The restaurant plays an active role in the community; Steve and Monique frequently provide food and respite for neighbours who may need a warm place to hang out. Through their food, they hope to not only give locals a taste of their culture, but to also provide other Jamaicans with a small taste of home. Don’t miss this stop!
Zuleeats (Ghanaian)
Where: 2760 Howard Avenue, Windsor, ON (View map)
Since her earliest memories growing up in Ghana, Zule Ankamah has always loved food. Zule has a passion for food and loves to share it with others. She worked for years in the restaurant industry, but when the pandemic shut down the world and halted much of the food industry, Zule saw an opportunity to create and share dishes from her home. In 2021, she launched ZuleEats to better serve her community in Windsor.
Zuleeats specializes in traditional Ghanian savoury meat pies, but don’t let the name fool you! Filling options for pies include vegan and vegetarian, as well as beef and chicken. Each filling has a unique blend of mouthwatering seasoning and is enveloped in a flaky golden brown pastry. Zuleeats also offers sausage rolls, Ghanaian meal specials (fufu, okra, jollof rice, chicken, etc.) and sweet offerings like butter tarts and almond rolls. Visit Zule to get a taste of Ghanaian home cooking!
Heimat Biergarten + Restaurant (European)
Where: 1367 Drouillard Rd., Windsor, ON (View map)
The German word Heimat translates to home in English, and that’s exactly what owners Ryan and Tracey seek to capture at their restaurant. This German and Bavarian restaurant was born out of an absence of a German community centre in Windsor in the mid-2010s. Ryan and Tracey started their Biergarten to give the German people of Windsor-Essex a place that they could call Heimat and enjoy traditional foods while sharing their culture with the rest of the county.
The menu features German classics like schnitzel, pretzels, sauerkraut, spätzle, and other heartwarming favourites. From the design and furniture in the Biergarten to their traditional food and beverages, as well as the authentic clothing and practices of the entire staff, walking through Heimat’s gate is like taking a trip to Bavaria.
Savouring the Flavours of Hamilton Halton Brant Along the True Brew Path
Just a short drive from much of southern Ontario is where you’ll find Hamilton Halton Brant, collectively referred to as the Heart of Ontario. This region is home to signature landscapes such as the Niagara Escarpment, the Grand River, the Bruce Trail, Lake Ontario shorelines and a collection of more than 100 waterfalls. These unique natural settings create a beautiful growing environment for some of Ontario’s best drink-making ingredients – grapes, wheat, barley, and hops, to name a few.
The True Brew Path was created in 2016 in order to highlight the growing interest in Ontario’s craft beer industry. Today, the True Brew Path features craft breweries, cideries and wineries all over Hamilton Halton Brant. Visitors can savour a unique variety of beers, ciders, spirits, and wines from 20+ locally operated businesses that produce or serve these regional beverages.
Ready to start discovering terroir and community in the Heart of Ontario? We’ve broken the list down into three regions, so just pick a destination and start making your itinerary:
- Halton (Burlington, Halton Hills, Milton and Oakville) – 45-60 minutes from Toronto
- Hamilton and Stoney Creek – 60 minutes from Toronto
- Brantford and the County of Brant (Burford, Paris, Oakland, Onondaga and St. George) – 75-90 minutes from Toronto
Halton (Burlington, Halton Hills, Milton and Oakville) – 45-60 minutes from Toronto
Cameron’s Brewing Company
Where: 1165 Invicta Dr, Oakville, ON (View map)
Cameron’s Brewing is a family-run craft brewery based in Oakville, Ontario. They began their journey to introduce delicious craft beer to the Ontario marketplace all the way back in 1997! Since then, this award-winning brewery has remained committed to brewing beer of exceptional taste and quality while implementing environmentally and socially conscious day-to-day practices. Stop by during the winter to grab a few classic beers fresh from the canning line for your next cozy get-together.
Nickel Brook Brewing Co.
Where: 3426 Mainway, Burlington, ON (View map)
Nickel Brook Brewing has been a transformative force in the Ontario craft beer scene since 2005. They boast a massive barreling program, aging beer in over 400 whisky, wine, gin and tequila barrels to further develop the depth and complexity of their award-winning recipes. On a cold winter day, there’s nothing better than savouring a rich barrel-aged stout by the fireplace in the taproom!
Furnace Room Brewery
Where: 1A Elgin St, Georgetown, ON (View map)
Furnace Room Brewery is a rustic venue in Halton Hills, perfect for those who love warm ambiance and unique character. And when we say unique, we mean it: their best-selling beer is named after a local legend, “The Chicken Man,” who rode the streets of Georgetown with his trusted pet chicken! Stop in for a bite to eat and a pint for lunch or dinner – you can’t go wrong with the bacon cheddar beer dip, crisp chicken & waffles, or the trio of tacos topped with lime crema.
Third Moon Brewing
Where: 295 Alliance Rd Unit 3, Milton, ON (View map)
Third Moon Brewing specializes in modern and interesting beers with unusual flavour combinations that will appeal to even the most discerning beer lover. For a fun beer experience, try sampling their hazy and juicy hop-forward IPAs and bold pastry stouts and comparing your initial thoughts with the tasting notes to see how many flavours you’re able to identify!
Orange Snail Brewers
Where: 32 Steeles Ave E #1, Milton, ON (View map)
Orange Snail Brewers is a Milton craft brewery owned and operated by two friends who have turned their passion for home brewing into a booming little business! The taproom’s festive ambiance makes this brewery a great spot for a get-together on a cold day.
3 Brasseurs
Where: 2041 Winston Park Dr, Oakville, ON (View map)
The 3 Brasseurs story started over 100 years ago in Lille, France when three brewers joined forces to create a brewery that would grow to become one of the most important in the country. In 1985, the descendants of the original founders opened their first neighbourhood microbrewery in Quebec, long before anyone had even heard of a “microbrewery” or “craft beer.” 3 Brasseurs now has four locations in Ontario, including in one the heart of the Oakville Entertainment Centrum. Grab a few friends to try the signature dish, Flammekueche, a pizza-eque Alsatian thin crust bread dish topped with sour cream or crème fraiche, lardons, onions, and more.
Hamilton and Stoney Creek – 60 minutes from Toronto
Puddicombe Estate Farms & Winery
Where: 1468 Hwy 8, Stoney Creek, ON (View map)
Puddicombe Estate is a family-run fruit farm, winery and cidery, operating for over 220 years. On Saturdays in the winter, visitors can enjoy an estate tour ride, followed by a glass of wine, cider, or hot chocolate around the campfire while roasting hotdogs & creating yummy gooey s’mores. Walk through orchards and vineyards for some fresh air or take part in a wine or cider tasting to learn more about this nine-generation farm.
Merit Brewing Company
Where: 107 James St N, Hamilton, ON (View map)
MERIT Brewing is a brewery and bottle shop located in the heart of downtown Hamilton, but it’s their culinary offerings that really sets them apart. Indeed, MERIT Co-Founder and Consulting Chef Jesse Vallins has been perfecting the classic pairing of beer and sausages since the brewery opened in 2017, with the goal of making “sausages as good as you’ll find them anywhere.” Stop by the brewery to try classic and innovative creations, like spicy pork andouille, meatloaf sausage, or even fried pepperoni.
Collective Arts Brewery
Where: 207 Burlington St E, Hamilton, ON (View map)
Collective Arts Brewery is a grassroots craft brewer with an incredibly-recognizable brand, which is surprising given that their cans, bottles, and merchandise feature limited-edition works of art by artists and musicians from around the world. The Hamilton taproom is a bustling place all year long, with concerts, trivia, bingo, crafting, and lots more happening nearly every night of the week. Check out the events calendar to see what’s on so you can plan your visit!
Fairweather Brewing Company
Where: 5 Ofield Rd Unit #1, Hamilton, ON (View map)
Fairweather Brewing Co.’s home base is a revitalized warehouse in west Hamilton’s Ainslie Wood neighbourhood, which houses a taproom and bottle shop, a 60 seat patio, and a 10,000 square foot production facility that doubles as an event space. Guests are encouraged to bring their favourite dishes from local spots to enjoy in the taproom along with a pint or flight. Keep an eye on their socials for winter events in the production space!
Ridge Road Estate Winery
Where: 1205 Ridge Rd, Stoney Creek, ON (View map)
Located right on the edge of the Niagara Escarpment and adjacent to the Bruce Trail, Ridge Road Estate Winery is located on a picturesque farm that has been in the family since 1875. Planning a wintertime visit? Don’t miss the Fire Pit Experience, which includes a glass of wine or mulled wine and access to the fire pit for 90 minutes (with a winery staff member to keep the fire going – score!). Pair your beverage with a cheese & charcuterie board, one of Deb’s famous grilled cheese sandwiches, or even specialty chocolate pairings.
Shawn & Ed Brewing Co.
Where: 65 Hatt St, Dundas, ON (View map)
The story of Shawn & Ed Brewing Co. is thirty years in the making! This dynamic pair of students at McMaster University shared a dream of someday opening a brewery. In 2016, their brewery opened its doors in a former skating and curling rink in Dundas. This vibrant and bustling space always has something going on, including music nights, a cornhole league, and even live pro wrestling! On a cold winter evening, grab a few friends and share some laughs over a few shareables from the kitchen menu.
Grain & Grit Beer Co.
Where: 11 Ewen Rd, Hamilton, ON (View map)
Grain & Grit opened their doors in Hamilton with a vision to create a brewery rooted in their love for craft beer and the community. The cozy taproom has a great selection of beers (all brewed in-house), cocktails, zero proof/non-alc options, and juice & slushies for the kiddos. Pair your beverage of choice with white cheddar cheese curds for an impromptu beer & cheese tasting.
West Avenue Cider House
Where: 84 Concession Rd 8 E, Freelton, ON (View map)
Helmed by the former Chef at Spencer’s at the Waterfront, West Avenue’s ciders are handcrafted using a blend of traditional methods and innovative new techniques like barrel aging and cask conditioning. In the winter, it’s the perfect stop to enjoy heritage ciders, wood-fired foods, local artisanal goods, and picturesque nature walks on the estate. Book one of 6 private firepits to enjoy a family-friendly day on the farm.
Leaning Post Wines
Where: 84 Concession Rd 8 E, Freelton, ON (View map)
In 2011, Ilya & Nadia Senchuk acquired a farmhouse nestled on 11 acres of land with the dream of starting the winery. The previously-undiscovered vineyard on the estate soon proved to be a hidden gem, consistently yielding superb fruit that translated into high-quality Pinot Noir & Chardonnay. Visitors to the winery can sample Leaning Post’s distinctive, terroir-driven wines, particularly the Lincoln Lakeshore sub-appellation that they helped pioneer. In the winter, make sure to book a private winter dome to enjoy a guided tasting and grazing board among the serene winter landscape.
Clifford Brewing Co.
Where: 398 Nash Rd N #1, Hamilton, ON (View map)
Like many craft brewers, Brad Clifford first started making beer at home in the kitchen as a hobby in 2009. After many years of contract brewing, Clifford Brewing Co. finally canned their first batch of Pinball Wizard at their East Hamilton location in 2017. Clifford’s beers have won many awards, and Clifford Brewing picked up Canadian Brewery of the Year at the 2019 Canadian Brewing Awards – a huge honour in such a stellar field of candidates. For the perfect winter afternoon, pick up some of your favourite takeout and head to the taproom to try the Clifford Porter, a dark and complex robust porter with well-balanced chocolate and coffee flavours.
Brantford and the County of Brant (Burford, Paris, Oakland, Onondaga and St. George) – 75-90 minutes from Toronto
Steel Wheel Brewery
Where: 105 Powerline Rd, Brantford, ON (View map)
Steel Wheel Brewery opened its doors in June 2018 and is Brant County’s first craft brewery! Located on an existing hop farm of long-time Brant County residents, Steel Wheel Brewery features a comfortable tasting room and an adjacent outdoor patio where patrons are invited to try a variety of small-batch brews. On the food side, you’ll find a range of pizzas made with crispy, airy, house-made dough and rich San Marzano tomato sauce.
Flux Brewing Company
Where: 185 Oakland Rd, Scotland, ON (View map)
Located in a former horse barn transformed into a rustic modern brewery and taproom, Flux welcomes guests to enjoy its diverse collection of brews on its large patio overlooking a beautiful pond. Choose a seat in the indoor taproom or in the heated patio tent, then head outside to order food from Manna Kitchen (in the shipping container – no table service here!). This is a great spot for a super casual get-together with a group of any size.
Howell Road Cider Co.
Where: 225 Howell Rd, St George, ON (View map)
Howell Road ciders are made with apples from an orchard that has been in production for 200 years, founded by Issac Howell, a one-eyed sharpshooter in the War of 1812. Issac was given land for his service and by 1820 Issac had settled on what is now Howell Road. Today, the 7th and 8th Howell generations continue to grow premium apples, with up to 22 varieties a season! Between November and August, the cidery welcomes guests for tastings on Saturdays from 10am-4pm.
Paris Beer Company
Where: 31 Mechanic St, Paris, ON (View map)
You may have heard of Paris, ON before – this little town has been named the Prettiest Little Town in Canada and it’s just 90 minutes from Toronto! The Paris Beer Company opened its doors in 2020 as the town’s first taproom brewery. The beer is brewed, tapped, bottled, and labelled under one roof in the charming Wincey Mills building, a heritage textile factory dating back to 1889. The taproom picked up a 2024 OpenTable Diners’ Choice Awards for their tasty menu of hearty mains and shareable snacks.
Sassy Britches Brewing Co.
Where: 111 Sherwood Dr, Brantford, ON (View map)
Discover the newest brewery in Brantford, located in Brantford’s Artisan Village and open Wednesday to Sunday! Stop by for a pint and enjoy live music in the taproom, and don’t forget to check out Eventbrite to see their calendar of workshops on everything from charcuterie to candle-making.
Discovering Georgian Bay’s Tasty Winter Adventures with the Apple Pie Trail
If you think that the Apple Pie Trail is just a fall activity, think again! This trail, located along the coast of Southern Georgian Bay and put together by Blue Mountain Village, has many spots that you can visit all year long.
Intrigued by this idea, but not sure where Georgian Bay is located? This large bay is part of Lake Huron, one of the five Great Lakes, which is split between the province of Ontario and the US state of Michigan. The drive from Toronto is under three hours, and it will take you through a beautiful section of countryside known as the Niagara Escarpment.
The Apple Pie Trail includes 28 stops in Blue Mountain Village/Craigleith, Beaver Valley, Thornbury, and Meaford where visitors can sip and savour all things apple all year round. In the winter, that list shrinks as apple orchards close down for the colder months, but there are a few gems sparkling among the snowy landscape.
Here are four ways to enjoy the great outdoors & delicious apple goodness along the Apple Pie Trail this winter:
1. Apple Pie Trail Snowshoe & Wine Tasting at Georgian Hills Vineyards
Experience the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and local flavours with the Apple Pie Trail Snowshoe and Wine Tour. Begin with a scenic snowshoe trek along the Bruce Trail at Petun Conservation Area, guided by an expert from Free Spirit Tours.
After working up a thirst, enjoy a short drive to Georgian Hills Vineyards, where you’ll indulge in four wines paired with a delicious cheese and charcuterie plate. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned snowshoer, this tour offers a relaxing yet adventurous escape into nature and local cuisine.
2. Outdoor Igloos & Sampling at Thornbury Craft Cider
For an unforgettable winter experience, consider booking one of the outdoor igloos at Thornbury Craft Cider. Cozy up in a heated igloo, with a picturesque view of their charming brewery and savour the season.
Each reservation includes a complimentary sample of Vodkow Cream Liquor, and though the igloos are warm, bringing a blanket and wearing layers is recommended for extra comfort. Reservations are 1 hour and 20 minutes long, providing the perfect amount of time to enjoy cider, craft beers, and the winter ambiance. For more information, visit Thornbury Craft Cider.
3. Snowshoe & Cider Tasting at Spy Cidery
Experience the ultimate winter adventure with Free Spirit Tours’ Snowshoe and Cider Tour. This scenic excursion begins with a guided snowshoe hike through the picturesque Petun Conservation Area along the Bruce Trail, offering stunning views of the snowy landscape.
After working up a thirst, you’ll head to Spy Cider House & Distillery for a refreshing cider tasting. Known for their artisanal approach to craft ciders, Spy offers a variety of delicious flavours that perfectly complement the winter chill. Whether you’re new to snowshoeing or an expert, this tour combines nature, exercise, and fine cider in an unforgettable winter experience. Click here for more details!
4. Walk with Alpacas, Sip Cider & Warm Up with Fondue
Experience the best of winter in South Georgian Bay with a unique and immersive tour combining the charm of Alpine Ridge Alpacas and the crisp, refreshing flavours of Grey & Gold Cider. Start your day at Alpine Ridge Alpacas, where you can enjoy a scenic stroll with these friendly, fluffy creatures against the backdrop of snow-covered landscapes. It’s a peaceful, joyful experience perfect for nature lovers and families alike.
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Afterwards, warm up with a visit to Grey & Gold Cider, known for its handcrafted ciders made from locally-grown apples. Sample a variety of ciders and learn about the cider-making process while relaxing in a cozy, fireside atmosphere.
End your adventure with a delicious meal at The Alphorn Restaurant, where you can enjoy hearty, comforting dishes in a charming, alpine-inspired setting. This tour offers the perfect mix of outdoor adventure, artisanal tasting, and fine dining—ideal for a memorable winter day. For more information, visit the Apple Pie Trail website.
