As short-term rental property owners in Niagara-on-the-Lake, we take great pride in the diversity our community offers. Over the years, people from around the world have fallen under the spell of our charming town and surrounding area and have decided to set up business and call it home.

As a result, Niagara-on-the-Lake has become a bit of a star in the culinary world. We thought we’d present a sampling of the variety of culinary treats from around the world that are available to you, our guests, whether you’re dining in or picnicking.

Aura on the Lake on King Street is owned by Chef Nittin Sharma who serves up a variety of Indian street food items and traditional main courses presented in an eye-pleasing and mouth-watering way. This local favourite is famous for its samosas, butter chicken, chicken tikka masala and more.

Gyros on the Lake at 12 Queen Street adds the flavours of Greece to the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Their extensive menu includes gyros, falafel, spanakopita, tzatziki, hummus and more.

Doughvine at 183 Victoria Street is operated by Jessica Millet who specializes in organic bread and doughnuts and other items with an Eastern European influence, like cheese bourekas.

Craig’s Cookies at 106 Queen Street has been a hit since it opened its doors on Canada Day 2023. More than 30 flavours and creative combinations await you and will definitely have you lining up for more.

Budapest Bakeshop at 118 Queen Street is renowned for its Hungarian specialty, Chimney Cakes, which are prepared, hand-rolled and baked from scratch each day. Just follow the smell to freshly baked goodness.

Masaki Sushi at 60 Picton Street uses only the finest seafood brought straight from Japan in Chef Jay’s beautiful creations. You don’t want to miss this little gem.

Niagara’s Finest Thai at 88 Picton Street presents authentic, delicious and traditional fare prepared by Chef Kitty Wisesputi (Chef T) and is one of just five Thai SELECT Signature restaurants in Ontario.

Ginger’s at 390 Mary Street features Asian Fusion cuisine — a blend of South Asian recipes from Thailand, Japan, Malaysia and various regions of China, served in a Western style and using fresh seasonal ingredients.

At Soko Bakery Café, owners Jihu Hyena and Sangil Lee greet customers with a smile at their Korean-themed café located at 358 Mary Street. Combine a couple of Jihu’s delicious baked goodies with a cup of Sangil’s brewed coffee selections for a treat you won’t forget.

The Twisted Vine Kitchen & Market at 1502 Niagara Stone Road in Virgil serves authentic Italian cuisine “just like Nona used to make” and is well worth the short drive from Old Town to savour some of the best Italian fare you’ll ever experience in the Niagara Region.

We could go on and on, but we think you get the idea. Niagara-on-the-Lake is definitely a foodie’s haven. We invite you to take a moment to browse through our online Menu Book for more ideas and suggestions.

However, the best part of this culinary paradise are the secrets buried in the carefully guarded family recipes prepared every morning by your bed and breakfast hosts. Of course, you may have a few secrets of your own you’d like to share with family and friends, in which case a villa, cottage or apartment may be more suitable for you. STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake offers you plenty of options.

So Many Reasons to Visit Us
There’s always something happening in Niagara-on-the-Lake:
Until August 29: Music Niagara Summer Festival Concert Series
Until September 15: Jackson-Triggs Summer Concert Series
August 19-20: Fife & Drum Muster & Soldiers’ Field Day
August 20: Cèilidh at the McFarland House
August 23: Shades of Summer Dinner
August 25: Humour and Hops at The Exchange Brewery
August 26: Glowing Sushi Night at Reif Estate Winery
August 26 & 26: AWA Niagara Festival at RiverBrink Art Museum
August 31: Heritage Garden Party at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum
September 3: Bell Concert at St. Mark’s Anglican Church
September 8: Moonlight Picnic at Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre
September 15: Icewine Cocktail Part y
October 21: Doors Open Niagara-on-the-Lake
October 28 to December 3: Bravo Niagara !

Helpful Tips
Did you lose something while you were in Niagara-on-the-Lake? Contact the lost and found centre at the NOTL Chamber of Commerce located at 26 Queen Street in the lower level of the building. Or call 1-905-468-1950 or email tourism@niagaraonthelake.com for more information.

Most Town parking meters, except for four located in the Heritage District, no longer accept credit card payments. They do, however accept credit card payments via the Honk Mobile app. The Town understands the frustrations this has caused visitors and apologizes for the inconvenience. Town is working on short- and long-term solutions to the matter. In the meantime, coins are accepted at all parking machines, and the four machines that still do accept regular credit card payments are located in the Court House lot, the Prince of Wales lot, Queens Royal Park lot (down by the lake) and near the Post Office on Queen Street.

Admit it; you need a break. Life is supposed to be fun, too, and your inner child is yearning to come out and play. It’s high time to step up and enjoy yourself. After all, it’s Leo season, a time for romance, levity, exploration, discovery, awakening creativity, self-expression and re-invention! Learning your “turn-ons” is an essential part of life’s journey. And, under the leonine sun, the more dramatic, the better!

Why not try something edgy and fun?

It all begins with finding just the right accommodation for your stay. For some of you, that will be a charming bed and breakfast where you’ll likely be treated to cosy guest quarters, warm hospitality and some of the freshest and tastiest breakfasts on the planet. For others, a self-catering villa, cottage or apartment rental is more suitable. Whatever your preference may be, STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake has you covered. Simply plug in your dates and a list of available options will pop up. The online interactive map and a Menu Book will help you plan your time with us.

Challenge Your Comfort Zone
Stepping outside of our comfort zone does wonders for our self-esteem. It doesn’t have to be a life-changing event. Just the fact that you are willing to try something new is often enough.

Perhaps it’s as simple as a scenic hike through the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve along the Niagara River where you can enjoy the natural beauty of the area, admire stunning views, dip your toes in the water and maybe even spot some wildlife. Or getting back on a bicycle or e-bike to explore the region’s beautiful vineyards and wineries, many of which offer tastings and tours. While you’re out and about, take time to visit local farmers’ stands for fresh produce, artisanal products and more.

Maybe it’s time to broaden your diet. Tease and educate your palate on a culinary adventure as you indulge in the local food scene by trying out different restaurants and cafés that offer unique and innovative dishes from around the world. The Menu Book mentioned above features a wide selection.

Awaken and celebrate your sleeping Andy Warhol or Trisha Romance. Unleash your creativity and learn new artistic techniques in workshops led by local artists, such as those offered at the Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre, RiverBrink Art Museum and Bélisle Pottery, to name just a few.

How do you feel about ghosts? Embark on a spooky adventure by joining a guided ghost walk through Old Town or Fort George, a military fortification from the War of 1812. Step back in time at the Niagara Apothecary, a restored 19^th-century pharmacy that offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of medicine. You might encounter the long-time occupant, a pleasant looking gentleman dressed in 1860s period costume. He may be a little camera-shy though.

Kick it Up a Notch
Ready for a bigger hit of adrenalin? Hop on board the historic Whirlpool Aero Car (c. 1916) to soar 3,500 feet across the Niagara Gorge between the USA and Canada for spectacular views of the swirling Niagara Whirlpool 200 feet below. The experience is especially breathtaking in the fall.

Add some zip to your life. Put your fear aside to experience two world-class ziplining adventures offered by Wildplay at the unforgettable Zipline to the Falls and the Whirlpool Adventure Course.

Take to the skies for the ride of a lifetime with National Helicopters Inc. for an eagle’s eye perspective of the iconic Niagara Falls and surrounding area. Feeling romantic? Make it a sunset flight or a proposal or even a wedding event. Or finish your heli-tour with a landing at the vineyard of your choice to partake in a wine-tasting experience, a winery tour or an exquisite meal.

Prefer to be on the water rather than above it? Join other white-water warriors on a heart-thumping, adrenalin-pumping Whirlpool JetBoat Adventure up the scenic Niagara River. You have two choices: get soaked or stay dry. If you opt for the former, be sure to bring along a full change of clothing.

Breathe in the fresh and natural surrounding beauty as you kayak or paddleboard on Lake Ontario and the Niagara River. For the experienced, two-hour kayaking excursions with Niagara Kayaking depart from the shores of Niagara-on-the-Lake or Queenston. Always wanted to learn how to kayak or paddleboard? Here’s your chance. Paddle Niagara offers lessons and rentals to able swimmers as well as guided kayak tours, Kids’ Paddle Camps and their memorable Full Moon Paddles (weather permitting) under the Sturgeon Moon on August 1, the Blue Moon on August 30 and the Corn or Harvest Moon on September 29.

Go ahead: plan a date both of you will never forget!

Update Your Calendar
Whether you decide to challenge yourself or not, there’s always plenty to do in and around Niagara-on-the-Lake:
Until August 29: Music Niagara Summer Festival Concert Series
Until September 15: Jackson-Triggs Summer Concert Series
August 3: Pride and Prejudice
August 4: Craft Fest at The Irish Harp
August 6: Bell Concert at St. Mark’s Anglican Church
August 12: Peach Festival
August 12: Sip, Savour & Stroll
August 13: Shades of Rosé
August 13: NOTL Kinsmen Show & Shine Car Show & Barbecue
August 19-20: Fife & Drum Muster & Soldiers’ Field Day
August 20: Cèilidh at the McFarland House
August 23: Shades of Summer Dinner
August 25: Humour and Hops at The Exchange Brewery
August 26: Glowing Sushi Night at Reif Estate Winery
August 26 & 26: AWA Niagara Festival at RiverBrink Art Museum
August 31: Heritage Garden Party at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum
September 3: Bell Concert at St. Mark’s Anglican Church
September 8: Moonlight Picnic at Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre
September 15: Icewine Cocktail Part y
October 21: Doors Open Niagara-on-the-Lake
October 28 to December 3: Bravo Niagara !

Helpful Tip
Did you lose something while you were in Niagara-on-the-Lake? Contact the lost and found centre at the NOTL Chamber of Commerce located at 26 Queen Street in the lower level of the building. Or call 1-905-468-1950 or email tourism@niagaraonthelake.com for more information.

Tag: Niagara-on-the-Lake accommodation

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