If you’ve spent any amount of time in South Eastern Ontario, then you’ll know the region has much to offer by way of culinary experiences. Wine and cheese reign supreme in these parts, and while we know Prince Edward County is worth the trek for culinary delights, we're shining the spotlight on some noteworthy spots that are also worth a visit this winter.
Ideally situated between Toronto and Montreal, Kingston and the 1000 Islands make a worthy halfway point. If you’re headed either way for a winter adventure, take a detour to keep exploring and taste the flavours of a region that values quality products and immersive experiences. We even have an itinerary for you to follow along Highway 401. Rest assured, you won’t go hungry.
The city of heritage where the St. Lawrence River, Rideau Canal and Lake Ontario meet is also home to Ontario’s oldest public market. This long held position as a gathering place extends to the food scene, resulting in a meeting point of culinary ideas and expressions.
To discover how this has evolved in the city, join Kingston Food Tours for an opportune way to get the lay of the land and discover new eateries or rediscover beloved spots through the behind the scenes lens these tours offer.
While you’re in the city, lace up your skates and hit the ice at Springer Market Square for an idyllic skating session where the above mentioned public market takes place year-round.
Afterwards, head to Stoked Sauna at the Frontenac Club for an outdoor guided Nordic sauna experience. It’s only a short walk from the rink, so you’ll be sweating in no time!
Participating restaurants throughout the city will be offering prix fixe menus to taste what they do best, along with a host of events featuring local chefs and special guests. It will be hard to choose just one and we don’t blame you for wanting, and perhaps even attempting, to try them all! This season-long celebration of good eating begins February 2nd with themes including Lakes & Land, Terre & Tradition and Roots & Harvest among others.
It’s easy to get whisked away by the charm of taking a boat tour through the 1000 Islands in the summer months, but the frozen bays and snowy landscapes offer a different kind of adventure this time of year. With plenty of ice fishing options along the St. Lawrence River, you’ll be getting up close and personal with your food at its source.
If you’re missing the farm experiences of summers past, Berry Homestead Farm offers a peaceful Donkey hike along snowy winter trails. The farm in Lyndhurst focuses on elderberry and donkey milk products. This is an ideal setting for slowing down and enjoying a different kind of outdoor experience.
After all that adventure, head further along the St. Lawrence River to Maison Maitland for a hands-on cooking class and opt to stay the night in one of their villas for the full experience.
Winter in South Eastern Ontario = Fun.
No matter where you find yourself in the region this season, we can guarantee it will be delicious. South Eastern Ontario's proximity to urban centres and smaller towns offers an abundance of food experiences and winter activities. If you've been inspired to head to Kingston and the 1000 Islands this season, it's safe to say that you won't leave disappointed.
