Ontario has it all – diverse geography and cuisines to match. Since the country and province are so multi-cultural, Ontario meals are made to match our growing diversity with culturally traditional foods, western adaptations, and regional specialties. Ontario has cuisines that can be found around the globe, and it also has home-grown specialties that are highly coveted by tourists. Ontario’s agriculture, local ingredients and diverse regional flavours make the dishes distinctly delicious.
Greater Toronto Area
The GTA is especially diverse in cultures and this is reflected in the plethora of restaurant options. The cultural mosaic includes Indian, Mexican, Chinese, Pan-Asian, Caribbean and French, to name a few. When it comes to restaurants, the GTA has something for everyone. Visitors to Ontario can relax on cafe patios, pub-style bistros, bakeries, family spots, fast-food chains, trendy lounges, diners, mom-and-pop shops, themed restaurants, fine dining, steakhouses, and so much more. Some notable Toronto restaurants that have stood the test of time are Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, LEE (with famous chef, Susur Lee) and Octagon, a steakhouse in north Toronto, Thornhill.
Southwestern Ontario
This area comprises Grand River County, Essex and the Bruce Peninsula and offers an abundance of regional specialties along with global cuisines. Visitors can enjoy a full spectrum of dining, including relaxing cafes, family spots, fine dining, burger joints and steakhouses. Urbanites can still get a full spectrum of menu options from the surrounding cities of Kitchener-Waterloo, Hamilton, Sudbury, Guelph, Sarnia and Windsor. Southern Ontario also contains the Niagara region which is known for its wineries, since its climate is perfect for growing grapes. Food and wine pairings are great in this region.
Northern Ontario
Most of Northern Ontario is known for its rugged wilderness and small towns, and especially its contributions to agriculture and various regional cuisines. Dining in northern Ontario will still provide tourists with international dining options, but more restaurants focus on selling locally grown products. The cities of Sault Ste. Marie, Sudbury, and Thunder Bay provide a lot of options for fine-dining, mom-and-pop shops, family restaurants, and fast-food chains.
Central Ontario
The largest region of Ontario, Central Ontario is known to be a recreational haven and dynamic in its culinary options. Locally produced foods are increasingly important to the local chefs, and as such, the food served in restaurants is fresh and ready to go. Sustainability is the most important thing for farmers and those buying local food, and are in abundance throughout the region. Central Ontario offers a more regional, home-style culinary variety.
Niagara Falls Region
The Niagara region has scenery as impressive as its food and wine, acclaimed chefs and sommeliers. These factors combined make world famous dining experiences that will impress the sharpest of taste buds. Wineries, bed-and-breakfasts, inns, and stunning restaurants make up the Niagara region, which is perfect for vacationing in the lap of luxury with extravagant prices. The Niagara Food Festival held in early October in Welland, has a wide selection of vendors and regional foods.
Ottawa Region
Ontario’s most historical city provides unique culinary options like no other across the country. Influenced by First Nations, French and English cultures, the city is rife with innovative cuisines. A few notable places that use traditional cooking methods and sustainable practices are Sweetgrass Aboriginal Bistro, Domus and Coasters Seafood Grill. If you can’t decide, you might appreciate the Bon Appétit Ottawa gourmet food festival which is the product of the epicurean creations of over 90 restaurants.
Eastern Ontario
Ontario’s emerging wine regions and tranquil countryside, Eastern Ontario has plenty to offer foodies. Extending along the Ottawa Valley and the St. Lawrence corridor, fishing and agriculture make up the east’s sustainable food products, but the east also offers charming teahouses, artisanal cafes, ice cream shops, and family restaurants.
