Niagara Falls, Ontario, is famous for many things, most notably for its spectacular geological formations and dozens of tourist attractions, including the new immersive “Currents” exhibit, within the historic Niagara Parks Power Station. However, one thing the city isn’t particularly known for is the food scene – that is, until you walk off the main avenue.
Unlike chain restaurants, many of the featured venues are committed to working with food grown and processed in Ontario (Ontario Culinary’s Feast On designation recognizes this dedication to sustainable local sourcing). From recent additions to much-loved community institutions, here are some delightful stops for your next visit to the iconic falls.
For hyperlocal dinners: AG Inspired Kitchen (5195 Magdalen Ave., Niagara Falls)
Steps away from the wax museums and galleries of Clifton Hill, and tucked away inside the Sterling Inn and Spa, Chef Cory Linkson serves a thoughtful three-course dinner inspired by the terroir of Niagara. Dishes are brimming with produce harvested from a half-acre farm in nearby Lundy’s Lane, and can start with blistered dukkah-covered red shishitos and finish with a dessert finished with honey from AG’s hives. Also impressive is Linkson’s ability to combine its French cuisine with the Niagara wines served.
For a favorite from the family-run area: Casa Mia Restaurant (3518 Portage Rd., Niagara Falls)
Serving award-winning Italian flavors for more than three decades, matriarch Luciana Mollica and her son Claudio transform local ingredients, some grown by Patriarch Gino and sister-in-law Lisa at Terra Mia Farms, into refined dishes that Maitre d ‘son Dominic delivers with watch out. Whether you’re enjoying casual pizzas in the stylish kitchen bar, classics like homemade pastas and veal parmigiana in your spacious sundeck, or the tasting menu with modernist touches in your dining room or private cellars, sommelier Laura Oberlein will always have a Expert pairing from their deep wine library.
For refined pastries and desserts: Liv at Cafe Fifty Four (3643 Portage Rd., # 16, Niagara Falls)
From incredibly crispy layered golden croissants, freshly fried fritters and gooey buttercakes to ethereal composite entremets, it seems like there’s nothing Chef Olivia Mollica, a third-generation chef from the Casa Mia lineage, can’t do. Keep an eye out for seasonal treats like pumpkin caramel coffee cake or fall macarons, which are great washed down with a brown butter maple latte and tonka bean. Order in advance to avoid disappointment; the display case can be almost empty by midmorning.
For a leisurely blunch: Harinero Scratch Kitchen Restaurant (6080 Fallsview Blvd., Niagara Falls)
Looking for a contemporary and indulgent Canadian brunch? Head to this former flour mill’s Feast On-certified restaurant for its blunch, which may start with a pepper-speckled maple candied bacon dripping from a table’s “tree” before introducing poached lobster pancakes. with butter or brûléed French toast drizzled with Quebec. English maple. For fans of Eggs Benedict, the version here stacks poached egg halves of baker Catherine Murawski’s delicious scones with prosciutto de pingue, (plus) butter-poached lobster, or smoked salmon.
For the whole maple syrup: the Maple Trail at Maple Leaf Place (4199 River Rd., Niagara Falls)
Launched in 2019, Maple Trail brings the sugar bush indoors, dedicating 5,000 square feet to all things Ontario maple syrup. The interactive family exhibit is part production facility, part workshop, and full sensory experience. Take an immersive audio / video tour to learn about the origins of the quintessential Canadian ingredient. Sample artisan chocolates, fudge, and (when available) maple caramel made on an ice table. Try a comparison of light, amber, and dark flavors on a flight before stocking up on the sweet stuff to take home.
Writer Renée S. Suen traveled as a guest of Niagara Falls Tourism, which did not review or approve this article. Travelers are reminded to check for public health restrictions that could affect their plans.
Reference-www.thestar.com