Holiday hangs: 26 more places to tempt you this season
Have your holidays planned yet - or are you thirsty for more? We have rounded up some last-minute thoughts on where to sneak away and enjoy a meal out this season. With so much prep, it’s key to have a few go-to places waiting in the wings for when guests come knocking, you want a special surprise dinner or just need a little escape from the family bustle. It’s all about festive plates, shared moments and little pauses to appreciate the special season.
Mouth Watering Fare
1. The Noshery - Brockville
This hidden gem in Brockville is a locally owned and operated fun, eclectic, and quality-first restaurant that is recognized by locals and visitors alike for its delicious food and warm, inviting atmosphere. The decor is a fun mix of 80s nostalgia - but the food is high end. It’ll be one of the best steaks you’ve ever had - but in a casual atmosphere at a comfortable pace. We’re drooling!
2. Linden Leaf Restaurant - Oxford Station
A mouth-watering menu of elevated European dishes has been curated here! The Linden Leaf in Oxford Station is a personal and unforgettable experience, serving the best Wiener Schnitzels, Bratwurst, Spaetzle, and high end steaks.
Refined yet creative, this family-owned restaurant elevates the downtown dining experience in Picton. From bison striploin to seared duck breast, Hartley’s Tavern is serving up elegance crafted with County ingredients and flavour - make it part of your holiday traditions!
Dress to impress dining
4. The Everly Restaurant and Lounge - Kingston
The Everly Restaurant & Lounge is a stylish mid-century inspired space offering a rotating, locally-sourced menu of refined seasonal classics, a terroir-driven wine list and a curated selection of classic cocktails - new cocktail menus per season - even bookable for cocktail parties!
A little taste of Italy! This warm and welcoming family-run resto serves authentic Italian food and is known for its fresh pasta, sauces, ragus and incredible antipasti boards!
6. Tango Nuevo - Kingston
Tango embraces the international tradition of sharing small plates, or tapas, bringing people together and encouraging conversation. Tango Nuevo is heavy on style and exceptional service. Serving cold and hot tapas, prepared with locally grown, seasonal fruits and vegetables, as well as locally produced meats and artisan cheeses. Immerse yourself in the elegant, Old-World charm of the private wine cellar, La Bodega. It seats a limited number of people and is a specially-booked alternative dining experience.
7. Chez Piggy - Kingston
Located in the heart of downtown Kingston, Chez Piggy brings grace, gusto, taste and imagination to every table. A local favourite and destination for food lovers, 'the Pig' must be experienced. Call to reserve.
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Special Night Out
8. Indian Cuisine Hub - Brockville
The food is out of this world and reasonably priced! If you like Indian food - or if you want to try something new - this is the authentic place. Service is known for making it a special occasion every day, with a full menu of favourites and spice levels. The decor is also a huge bonus - very eye-catching and picture perfect with pink flowering vines cascading from the ceiling, twinkling lights and even a greenery photo wall.
9. Mercury Bar and Lounge - Kingston
Culinary Experience vibrant flavours of Asia meet the charm of Kingston’s historic downtown expertly crafted cocktails like the Espresso Martini and Peach Bellini to a selection of local beers on tap, be sure to indulge in the famously smooth, signature Espresso Martini, a rich espresso based cocktail with a hint of vanilla.
10. AquaTerra - Kingston
Enjoy Kingston’s waterfront while sipping chilled champagne or refreshing cocktails featuring local breweries and distilleries. Indulge in AquaTerra’s signature dishes focusing on freshly-prepared dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients. Enjoy globally inspired dishes and an extensive local, regional and international wine list. Remarkable waterfront views accompany every meal!
Christmas Coffee Culture
11. Coffee Cravings - Napanee
Start your day in a brewtiful way! Whether you like specialty coffees or just enjoy the caffeine of a simple cup of joe, then Coffee Cravings is where it’s at. Sit and sip on the festive snickerdoodle latte or the Grinchy Matcha. Pop inside to check out the mugs, accessories and all things coffee.
Don’t miss this shop! Katarina’s Coffee Shop is known for its cozy breakfasts and lunches, desserts and baked goods but the coffee is out of this world, too. We’re talking to-die-for homemade pastries, flavourful food, espresso and cappuccino. This family-owned and operated café in Prescott is guaranteed to be your new go-to.
Family Favourites that Sparkle
Stoodley's specializes in delicious food, featuring fresh local ingredients prepared in house daily. With great portions, delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere, this small town gem is ready to help take the load off this holiday season. Have surprise guests? No problem! Take out options available, or dine in with your friends in their festive and friendly restaurant.
14. Mio Gelato - Kingston
This is the real deal for Italian gelato! It’s made on site right before your eyes. Locally owned and operated, local fruit is used as much as possible to create signature tastes like raspberry, strawberry and more. Try seasonal favs like candy cane, gingerbread or peppermint hot chocolate gelato!
15. 1000 Islands Restaurant & Pizzeria - Brockville
A mainstay in Brockville for almost half a century, 1000 Islands Restaurant & Pizzeria is known for making the best pizza in town. Committed to keeping their homemade pizza authentic and top quality, the restaurant is also a comfortable place that also makes other Greek traditional foods as well as casual favourites.
Place to escape the reunion
16. The Local Social House - Belleville
Craving something other than chocolate and turkey? The Local Social’s shucking good deal returns every Tuesday! Oysters are on special after 3 p.m. each Tuesday - making it the perfect holiday ritual and friend meet up. Gorgeous riverside dining with comfortable artisanal fare! Pair it with their sparkly new winter cocktail menu and you’ve got yourself a night out. (We hear there’s also Midweek Mussels happening here on Wednesdays!)
17. CàB Café
This cherished restaurant in the heart of Chute-à-Blondeau in East Hawkesbury serves up homemade goodness, with pastries prepared on site daily! Look here for fresh seasonal meals, pick up a fresh load of sourdough, have brunch in the charming dining room, just steps from the Ottawa River. Your newest little pick-me-up spot!
Get your dancing shoes on - Live music
Enjoy drinks, dining and dancing here with a remarkable view of two bodies of water in Westport! As a family-owned, four-season inn, The Cove is known for exciting live music almost every night of the year. From soulful international artists to sing-along ballad bands, all deliver that warm, small-town charm and laid-back cool factor The Cove is known for. While away a cozy afternoon connecting with friends or treat yourself to a special holiday evening with delicious menus and fun entertainment.
19. Hotel Wolfe Island - Frontenac
Live music at Hotel Wolfe Island is the soundtrack to your new favourite night out - fresh, electric, and an effortless good time. The stage buzzes with indie talent and touring artists that turn an ordinary evening into a “you had to be there” moment. Grab a craft drink, sink into the warm, eclectic vibe, and let the waterfront energy carry you. It’s the kind of place where the music feels close and the crowd feels in the know. Couple that with fresh, seasonal elevated menus and you have a holiday night to remember!
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Experience Something Special
20. Arbru Winter Domes
This fully off-grid brewery is unique in Canada - and it even offers private winter dome themed experiences! Domes decked out in Country Cozy or Winter Wonderland, heated and comfy, ready to welcome you with personalized service and great beer. Enjoy stone-fired pizzas here, too!
21. Waterfront River Pub and Terrace Snow Globes - Napanee
This place is lit - literally! With 10 cozy waterfront snowglobes adorned with the season’s finest, including blankets, heaters and twinkling lights, this is a beautiful experience with outstanding food. Look for a crackling communal fire and enjoy a private candlelit dinner with your favourite people.
Peak Christmas Nostalgia
Think greenery, lights, Christmas colours and lots of decor - that’s the festive vibe at the beloved Kingston Brewing Company. Immediately feel welcomed as you step into the inviting space decked out in old school holiday decorating, making KBC sparkle in the best way. Stay for a beer from the 26 craft taps, or sit and catch up with friends over tasty burgers - you choose!
23. Brigadoon - Oxford Mills
Whether it’s a romantic holiday dinner, festive family gathering or even high tea (!) this restaurant nestled in a limestone heritage building has been a cherished part of the community for more than 30 years. At this time of year it’s decked out with Christmas finery, lit trees in every corner, greenery, lights twinkling and fancy table settings. The essence of Christmas spirit!
Leisurely Lunch or Dinner
24. The One Eleven Main Street Eatery - Vankleek Hill
We hear the Philly Steak Wrap is a knock out! Looking for real hearty food - this is the perfect drop-in. Whether for lunch, dinner or even just a coffee and homemade baked treat, The One Eleven Main Street Eatery fits the bill this season. The fact that it’s fully licensed is also enticing during the holi-daze!
25. The Atlantic Pub - Alexandria
This rare combination of a traditional UK-style pub, Indian culinary delights and cozy atmosphere is a winner! The pub has a rich history dating back more than 140 years. Savour the beloved hospitality, marvel at the decorations set against the rustic and welcoming feeling of visiting this charming pub during the festive season! Look here for loads of live music, too, from local bands to jam sessions, karaoke to professional artists.
The Commons always has a little extra sparkle at this time of year. Strings of light, ornaments hanging from the ceiling, trees aglow amongst tables - all boost a new menu just launched last month. Think fresh and local ingredients, elevated winter dishes, and heart-warming flavours, with beautiful plating!
South Eastern Ontario is known for its noshing and bonding over savouring good food and drink. At the heart of life in South Eastern Ontario are its producers - and thriving farms, restaurants, breweries and wineries. Discover some unique places to pull up a chair – or even have it delivered to your door. One thing’s for sure: we bet your appetite is whet for more!
