Merrill House

However, the area has also gained a reputation for its thriving culinary scene, with a wide range of restaurants offering delicious and creative dishes. 

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you can’t miss exploring the food scene in Prince Edward County.

In this blog, we’ll highlight just some of the best restaurants in the area, from fine dining to casual spots, that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Bon appetite!

Find some of the best:

Restaurants with Wineries    |   Restaurants in Picton    |   Restaurants in Wellington    |   Restaurants in Bloomfield    |   Restaurants on the Water    |   Dog-Friendly Restaurants    |   Patio Restaurants    |   Vegan Restaurants    |   Gluten-Free Restaurants

Restaurants With Wineries

It’s been said that a meal without wine is like a day without sunshine. Good thing that the clouds are always parted here in PEC – figuratively, of course.

Here, you’ll find a handful of wineries with in-house restaurants serving up delectable dishes accompanied by generous glasses of County-made wine, regarded internationally for being high-quality, distinctively flavorful, complex and expressive of its terroir.

So together, let’s raise a glass and tempt your tastebuds.

Waupoos Estates Winery Restaurant

Regally situated on 100 acres of waterfront property, Waupoos Estate Winery was the first of its kind in Prince Edward County.

The vineyards – first planted in 1993 as an ambitious experiment – now produce 18 varieties of grapes, which serve as the base for luscious wines that have placed in national and international wine competitions, with the medal count growing annually.

Wander towards the water’s edge, and you’ll stumble upon the winery’s farm-to-table focused restaurant, aptly named “The Restaurant at Waupoos Estates.”

Here, panoramic views of Lake Ontario are paired with crowd-pleasing wines that please the palate in unexpected ways.

The Restaurant’s food philosophy is simple enough, yet delightfully effective: use sustainably-sourced, fresh ingredients grown right there for a true Farm-to-Table experience.

Head chef Kevin McKenna, who served as an Executive Chef at a collection of top restaurants like Toronto’s Globe Bistro, prides himself on creating menus that will showcase the freshest local ingredients.

The multi-course pre-fixed menus offer a combination of family-style and plated courses in a refined, yet casual, dining experience. For lunch, try the smoked salmon rillette to start, property-raised beef smash burger in the middle and the apple tarte tatin for dessert, which features estate maple syrup floss and cinnamon vanilla gelato.

Check out the full lunch and dinner menus here.

Huff Estates Winery & Inn

Over in Bloomfield, Huff Estates Winery and Inn’s modern facility produces a range of high-quality, award-winning Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs, Pinot Gris, Rieslings, Merlots, Cabernet Francs and Rosés using locally-grown grapes.

But in addition to their award-winning wines, the winery also features an art gallery, a luxury inn, and a restaurant, making it a popular destination for wine enthusiasts and tourists alike.

You’ll love the restaurant’s covered patio overlooking the vineyard and the Italian wood-fired pizzas with their deliciously crisp, charred crusts that are made in-house.

Since you’re at a winery, we’d suggest giving the “Winemaker’s Fave” pizza a try. It’s topped with mozzarella, prosciutto, black olives and fresh basil. But if you’re in the mood for a classic, there’s always the Margherita, which is finished with mozzarella, fresh basil and a parmigiano-reggiano/asiago blend.

Norman Hardie

When you visit Norman Hardie Winery come May, you’re sure to notice the scent of the wood-fired pizzas wafting through the air. You’ve got the outdoor pizza to thank for that.

It cooks up some of the best pies you’ll find, with a time-tested recipe developed by top chefs from some of Toronto’s finest restaurants.

Unless you book a table (only available for groups of eight or more) the chances are pretty good that you’ll have to wait. But (and this is a big but!) this is a good thing, because you’ll get the chance to stroll through the vineyards with a glass of wine in hand.

If you have something other than pizza in mind, the restaurant also serves up PEI oysters, warm cast iron olives, house-smoked local trout and organic seasonal salads. Vegan or vegetarian? You’re good to go. The restaurant has you covered.

Some of the Best Restaurants in Picton

Known for its local, farm-to-table cuisine and cozy, intimate restaurants, the charming town of Picton, Ontario is where you can indulge in delicious seafood, Italian and French cuisine, as well as classic Canadian dishes like poutine and maple-glazed salmon.

But if you’re looking for a casual and laid-back dining experience, there are plenty of cafes and bakeries offering coffee, pastries and sandwiches.

You’ll love how many of the town’s restaurants source their ingredients locally, making it a satisfying culinary experience and an opportunity to support local farmers and producers.

Here are just a few of our favourites, but there are plenty more to choose from!

The Acoustic Grill

Right in the heart of downtown Picton, you’ll find the perfect combo of good music and great food at The Acoustic Grill.

It’s been around since 2006, and for darn good reason. It serves up the best burgers in town in a cozy pub atmosphere with just the right touch of rock and roll.

Try the Acoustic Jam, which features local Angus beef, fresh tomato, greens, onion, horseradish mayo, and roasted corn salsa all sandwiched in a grilled bakery bun.

Veggies more your thing? Try the black bean County Garden Burger, topped with baby greens, roasted red pepper, zucchini ribbons, goat cheese, corn salsa and the in-house red pepper mayo on a grilled bun.

Other options are up for grabs, too, including salads, wings and poutine. Take your pick. You won’t leave hungry.

Check out the full menu here.

The County Canteen

Ontario craft beer has been gaining popularity in recent years, with a growing number of microbreweries and craft beer bars popping up throughout the province.

From hoppy IPAs and rich stouts to fruity sours and refreshing lagers, there’s something for every beer lover to enjoy.

And The County Canteen took notice of that.

Here, you’ll find more than 20 taps of Ontario craft beer from some of the province’s more notable breweries, including Mackinnon Brothers (you’ll find these guys just outside of Kingston), and Prince Eddy’s, which is just down the road in Picton.

Pair your lager with beer-battered fish and chips, canteen fries and slaw, or your ale with the restaurant’s Mother Clucker, a buttermilk-fried chicken breast topped with bacon and pimento cheese, tomato, pickles and lettuce.

There are also ciders, selzers and sours on tap, as well as an extensive selection of County wines and ciders.

The Royal

Executive chef Albert Ponzo has put his signature touch on The Royal Hotel’s inspired menu, which “honours our local regional terroir and celebrates the bounty of Edwin County Farms and the many incredible growers in The County.”

The menu, which gracefully evolves with the seasons, serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner, so no matter the time of day, you’re guaranteed to enjoy that local food, made fresh to order.

Give the duck confit a go with a potato pave, braised greens and a red wine jus. Or there’s also Rainbow Trout for two, with almonds, verjus, capers and olive oil.

All the menu’s items have been carefully curated to give you a royal dining experience, indeed, so save room and make the most of it.

“At The Royal, we instill a true farm-to-table food program that prides itself in listening to the seasons, embracing the bounty of The County, and especially drawing from Edwin County Farms,” says Ponzo. “The food is approachable, showcasing well-known local favourites alongside those with strong roots in the Italian tradition. Dishes focus on clean flavours with few components, establishing balance and allowing the ingredients to speak for themselves: clear and defined.”

Tip: Check out the restaurant’s expansive outdoor dining area that overlooks the lush garden.

Some of the Best Restaurants in Wellington

A picturesque village located in Prince Edward County, Wellington is situated on the shores of Lake Ontario, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Quietly boasting quaint charm and beautiful waterfront scenery, the village is home to a variety of unique shops, galleries and restaurants, all ready to welcome you in.

And trust us: the vibrant culinary scene is something to behold, so get ready to satisfy whatever cravings you have.

Drake Devonshire

Here, dining is inspired by the seasons and even the most discerning palates will find something they can’t get enough of.

Talented Executive Chef Amanda Ray has thoughtfully curated extensive breakfast, lunch, brunch and dinner menus that feature everything from the Drake Benny, to a salmon bowl, to a duo of lamb.

And even better? The food is paired with a view.

The Inn sits right on the water’s edge, providing guests with stunning views of the lake and its surroundings.

Take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy your meal on the outdoor patio or relax in one of the Inn’s many lounging areas, all while taking in the beautiful scenery.

The view changes throughout the day, with the sunrise and sunset providing particularly stunning moments.

In the morning, guests can watch the sunrise over the lake, casting a warm glow over the water. As the day goes on, the lake shimmers in the sunlight, reflecting the clouds and sky above. In the evening, guests can watch the sunset over the lake, painting the sky with hues of pink, orange, and purple.

Check out the full menus here. Depending on the time of day you visit (and the time of year), the menus change up.

Midtown Brewing

The Midtown Brewing Company is a popular destination in Wellington for beer lovers and foodies alike.

This locally-owned and operated brewery (featured in top-notch publications like Chatelaine, Toronto Life, and Forbes Travel Guide), serves up a wide variety of craft beers, all brewed on-site using the finest ingredients.

You’ll love the brewery’s taproom, which provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere, complete with rustic décor and a friendly staff.

But in addition to their delicious beer selection, the Midtown Brewing Company also offers a menu of delicious pub fare, including classic burgers, sandwiches and pizzas.

One standout dish is the brewery’s Duke Dog, topped with a pineapple salsa and smoky aioli.

Also good to know: The Midtown Brewing Company hosts live music events and other community activities, making it a hub of activity in Wellington.

Don’t miss it.

Good to Know: This place is pet-friendly, so if you want to dine with your dog, bring them along! (Just keep them leashed.)

East and Main Bistro

There’s just something about food that’s prepared with fresh, local ingredients and East and Main Bistro has taken note.

Here, the welcome is warm and there’s a diverse menu with an array of dishes that have a modern, PEC twist.

Try the blackened Atlantic Salmon, served with jasmine pistachio rice, snow and snap peas and a lemon caper aioli. Or give the Louisiana-style jambalaya a go. It comes with shrimp, scallops, andouille sausage and chargrilled vegetables poured over a bed of steamed rice.

Check out their menu here, or call 613-399-5420 for a reservation.

Some of the Best Restaurants in Bloomfield

A charming, storybook-like village in Prince Edward County, Bloomfield is widely known for its picturesque downtown core filled with unique shops, restaurants and art galleries.

Situated in the heart of wine country and home to numerous wineries, the area is a popular destination for wine enthusiasts. Are you one of them? Bottoms up.

Flame + Smith

At Flame + Smith, sustainability is always top of mind. But it needs to taste good, too. Mission accomplished.

Right from the core of Bloomfield’s main street, you can enjoy the exciting art of woodfired cooking.

Try the Piri Piri Chicken Supreme, with grilled escarole, toasted almond, crème fraîche, lime pickled shallots and herbs. Or go for the wood-fired cauliflower steak, which comes complete with toasted cashew, kimchi sauce, beurre noisette and lemon.

But if neither of those tempt you, try the steak frites (you can never go wrong) or the cheeseburger, which is sandwiched between a house-made milk bun and grilled to absolute perfection.

Round out your dining experience with the restaurant’s extensive cocktail menu. And when we say extensive, we mean it. This place doesn’t mess around. Take a look here and get sipping.

The Saylor House Cafe

In a 19th-century Bloomfield home, magic is being made.

And it’s all because Susan Little is waving her wand as she creates (from scratch) delicious homemade dishes, including soups, salads, sandwiches and baked goods.

The cafe is particularly well-known for its mouth-watering pies, which are made fresh daily using locally-sourced ingredients. During your visit, just ask your server what went in the oven that morning.

If you’re visiting for lunch, try the grilled cheese, made with old cheddar, grainy mustard and mayo. Or the classic egg salad, with shredded carrots, chopped celery and mayo. There are other classic faves on the menu as well, including a honey ham sandwich, a chicken caesar wrap and white tuna.

Eat ‘till your heart’s content, but please do us a favour. Don’t skip dessert. This place has butter tarts that have a perfectly-flaky crust, and are filled with a rich, sweet mixture of butter and sugar. Then they’re tenderly baked until golden brown.

Don’t say we didn’t warn you, but you’re going to want to take some home.

Waring House Restaurant

The Waring House Restaurant is a popular dining destination located a stone’s throw from Bloomfield.

Situated in a historic 19th-century building, this place exudes old-world charm and sophistication. Here, you’ll find two dining options: The Barley Room Pub and Amelia’s Garden.

The Barley Room Pub is widely known as “The County’s gathering place”, with charming stone walls, fireplace and an old English-style bar. If you’re visiting on a Tuesday evening, check out Trivia Night. There’s also live music every Wednesday to Saturday. Take a look at their events calendar to see what’s going on.

Meanwhile, Amelia’s Garden Dining Room offers seasonal dining at its best. With many ingredients sourced from local food producers, this restaurant gives you a well-rounded taste of what PEC has to offer when it comes to food.

Good to Know: The Waring House has its own kitchen garden, so if you’re into fresh food, you’ll love how in most cases, produce will be freshly picked the morning of your visit.

Restaurants on the Water

Dining on the water is a unique and unforgettable experience, especially here in Prince Edward County. The views are spectacular. The breeze is refreshing. And the atmosphere is serene and tranquil. Hard to beat that, right?

With that, here are a few of our favourite places to dine water-side in Prince Edward County.

The View Restaurant at Picton Golf and Country Club

Touting itself as The County’s No. 1 waterfront resort (and for good reason) The View Restaurant lives up to its name. And then some.

Here, you’ll find great food and bevvys at affordable prices, in a friendly and casual atmosphere.

One catch, though: it’s currently only open to members and their guests and non-member players. So book a tee time, and make sure you check out this place after your round wraps up.

You can make reservations by calling 613-476-8383.

Restaurant on the Knoll

If you’re looking for casual lakeside dining, you’ll find it at Restaurant on the Knoll.

You can choose to eat on the seasonal beachside patio or covered veranda, where you can take in the gorgeous sunset over Sandbanks Provincial Park.

If you prefer to dine indoors, you’ll love the cozy dining room with its cathedral ceilings and stone fireplace.

The menu has something for everyone, so no matter who you’re traveling with – say, picky kids – nobody will go hungry.

Good to know: The onsite restaurant and lounge are closed until the summer season, so call before you visit to make sure they’re open.

The Inn at Lake on the Mountain

Since 1796, the Inn at Lake on the Mountain has steadfastly kept watch over the Bay of Quinte, perched 200 ft below. Now, to be fair, it hasn’t always been an inn (it used to be a general store), but for more than 30 years, this place has been serving up the freshest ingredients sourced from the resort’s gardens and from local farmers, fishermen and producers.

Joining them for lunch? Try the poutine, which puts a twist on a classic Canadian favourite. If you’re going for dinner, try the braised pork cheeks, which are braised in port wine and Hogan’s honey. It’s served with braised kale and a roasted garlic potato puree. Hungry yet?

One thing that’s good to know before you go: You can make a reservation by calling 613-476-1321.

Dog-Friendly Restaurants

Parson’s Brewing Company

Parson’s Brewing Company, a craft brewery located in the heart of Prince Edward County, is widely known for its unique and innovative beer offerings, as well as carefully-selected local wine, cider and non-alcoholic beverages.

Gaining inspiration from the rich County history and culture, the family-owned and operated farm brewery encompasses three heritage buildings that were disassembled and carefully restored. Now, its expansive beer garden features Latin American flavours and other beer-loving classics with an unstructured playground for your little ones.

Parson’s Kitchen serves up a range of delicious eats, which switches up seasonally. Take a look here and see what suits your fancy.

“Connecting beer to the County’s agricultural heritage, our menu showcases flavours that are a reflection of our diverse cultural background,” says the brewery. “You’ll find Latin American flavours peppered throughout along with beer-loving classics. Our Chef works closely with local farmers and producers to source the freshest ingredients available.”

The Lakeside Motel

On Wellington’s Main Street sits The Lakeside Motel, a modern wonder that’s right on the water, so your pet can soak in some seriously impressive views of Lake Ontario.

If you’re visiting for lunch, try the Black and Blue Salad, which features a spice-rubbed, 5 oz sirloin atop a bed of mixed greens and topped with stilton, crisp shallots, heirloom tomatoes, avocado and buttermilk dressing. Or try the Jicama Vegan Tacos. With black beans and quinoa, avocado, roasted garlic jalapeno jam, sprouts and vegan sour cream, you’re not leaving hungry.

Sticking around for supper? You’ll find everything from pizzas, steaks and burgers, to tacos, street corn and truffle fries.

And your pup? Well, they’ll love the menu too. Check it out here. They have a few options for Fido to choose from.

“For four months out of the year, I’m transported to the Caribbean in Ontario. That is how beautiful this lake is in PEC,” says food director Nadya Mancini. “It reminds me of an ocean, and to be able to create this menu alongside it, is my honour. Lakeside has managed to keep the nature of the environment intact. It would have been simpler to build a brick-and-mortar restaurant but that would have taken away from all the natural beauty this gorgeous county has to offer, so we embrace it. In the wind, the sun, and the rain, we accept all of its grandness as it was meant to be.”

Patio Restaurants

If you’re visiting PEC during the warmer spring and summer months, there’s plenty of reasons to check out some restaurants with patios.

Fresh air. Sunshine. Good food. Hard to beat that, right?

Here are a few you might want to check out.

555 Brewing Co.

If you’re in Picton on a nice summer evening, there’s a pretty good chance you’ll see a lineup snaking its way out of this downtown restaurant. But it’s worth the wait.

Here, wood-fired pizza is served up alongside some epic-tasty beers that switch up often.

Go classic with a tomato sauce pizza topped with basil and mozzarella cheese, or get a little crazy and try something different. One pizza is topped with BBQ sauce, pulled pork, pickles, banana peppers and mozzarella cheese.

If you’re not in the mood for beer or pizza, you’re not going to go hungry. The menu also serves up East Coast garlic fingers, nachos, and salads.

The Lighthouse Restaurant

If you feel like making the most of Picton and the waterfront, this patio is where it’s at. Here, you’ll be treated to great views of Picton Harbour, all while enjoying a classic, family-style menu that includes things like wings, popcorn shrimp, salads, burgers, wraps and more.

If you had a late night, you’ll love the all-day breakfast.

Try the Harbour Sandwich, which comes with two fried eggs, and ham and cheddar cheese on toasted English muffin. Our advice? Add the side order of seasoned home fries.

Good to know before you go: The Lighthouse Restaurant has been voted County Week News Readers’ Choice Favourite Breakfast for several consecutive years.

Angry Birds

“Lickin’, kickin’, frickin good” is about as good a way as any to sell a patio, so we’re going to stick with it.

At this Picton-based restaurant, you’re going to find chickens seasoned with a special blend of smoked spices, locally-produced cured Smokehouse and served with delicious fries or a choice of side, Angry Birds’ “Super Duper Sauce” and a ciabatta roll.

While dining al fresco, you can try everything from classic chicken dinners, to sandwiches and wraps, veggie patties and salads.

Check out the full menu here.

Vegan Restaurants in Prince Edward County

For those who follow a vegan diet or are simply looking for plant-based options, there are several restaurants in the area that cater to these needs. Here are a few for you to check out during your stay in The County.

GOOD Place

Known as Prince Edward County’s local hub for the “mindful and health conscious”, GOOD Place has plenty of vegan, gluten-free and fresh options waiting to be enjoyed in a cozy setting.

Need a caffeine kick? You’ll love the locally-roasted coffee, and GOOD Place’s wide selection of teas and organic beverages.

Here, there’s also an organic grocer, with shelves stocked with specialty groceries, superfoods, supplements, bath and beauty and everyday needs, as well as smoothies and freshly-made organic fruit juices and superfood smoothie bowls with a wide selection of supplements you can choose from, as well.

You’ll love how all the GOOD choices are procured and wrapped with you and the planet in mind.

You can check out the full menu here.

The Bean Counter Cafe

A fixture of downtown Picton since 2003, The Bean Counter Cafe serves up local ingredients and friendly County hospitality.

Their falafel wrap, made with cucumber, carrot, pickled onion, sprouts and hummus, will fill you up, but if you still have a hankering for more, you’ll love the selection of baked goods and ready-to-eat items. For availability, give them a call at 613-476-1718.

Crepe Escape

Sweet. Savoury. Or something in between. You’ll find it at this charming creperie in downtown Picton.

Family-owned, this business has made it their mission to offer a menu with fresh, high-quality ingredients.

You’ll love the cozy, welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff, which adds to the overall experience.

If you’re vegan, you can choose from the restaurant’s inventive menu, or you can create your own, so let your imagination go wild.

Check them out on Facebook.

Gluten-Free Restaurants in Prince Edward County

La Condesa

Get a taste of Mexico’s vibrant flavors and culinary traditions right here in Wellington.

La Condesa features a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with colourful décor and friendly staff, and a menu that offers a range of traditional Mexican dishes, including tacos, tostadas, and quesadillas, as well as some creative interpretations of Mexican cuisine.

The place is clearly doing something right. It’s been featured by Food Network Canada, Toronto Life, the New York Times, and Air Canada enRoute and a waitlist that you can join remotely.

Heat things up with the spicy shrimp and chorizo taco, which features sauteed spicy pink Argentine shrimp, chorizo, guacamole and pico. And then cool it down with La Condesa’s selection of refreshing cocktails and Mexican beers.

If you’re gluten free, you’ll love the entire menu, with the exception of the fish taco.

Merrill House

Merrill House has been restored to its Victorian glory, and it’s just waiting for you to explore it.

And if you’re like other diners in the area, you’re going to love it. It was named as OpenTable’s “Most Booked Restaurant in Prince Edward County,” so you know you’re in for an experience worthy of even the most discriminating foodies.

“Merrill House’s French-inspired cuisine with a focus on Burgundy allows guests to pair food with their wines, in a celebration of Prince Edward County’s terroir and its similarities to Burgundy,” says Jordan Martin de Rosales, Merrill House owner and creative director.

You can learn more about this County staple here, or check out their full dinner menu here.

Satisfy Your Cravings: Indulge in Prince Edward County’s Top Restaurants

Prince Edward County is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences that cater to every palate. From fresh seafood to farm-to-table cuisine, the top restaurants in the county showcase the very best of local ingredients and culinary talent.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for a delicious meal, the restaurants in Prince Edward County are sure to satisfy your appetite and leave you with a lasting impression of the region’s unique culinary scene. What will you sample first?