Satisfy your sweet tooth with the best maple syrup experiences Elgin has to offer!
From wagon rides and special events, to mouthwatering breakfasts served with fresh maple syrup and melt-in-your-mouth fudge, these shops are sure to delight your senses and taste buds.
Come out and tap into nature! Tour the old-fashioned sugar shanty and experience the sweet tradition of maple syrup production at the Springwater Forest. Indulge in a scrumptious breakfast at the pancake house, where local community groups serve up fluffy pancakes topped with fresh maple syrup. Special attractions and wagon rides happen each weekend in March and throughout March break.
In March, at Palmer's Maple Syrup, you can explore the art of maple syrup production and enjoy a delicious breakfast that features their syrup in all its glory. At various locations and markets throughout the season, take home a bottle of Palmer's maple syrup, which has been crafted with the same care and tradition for over six decades.
Rodgers Maple Syrup is a family-owned and operated business that prides itself on producing the highest quality maple products using traditional methods right on their property. In addition to their delicious syrup, they also offer a variety of maple-infused treats, including creamy fudge and smooth maple butter. Their on-farm shop is open year-round just outside Port Stanley, and their products are sold at select stores throughout the area.
36500 Lake Line, Port Stanley, N5L 1J1
519-782-4662
8059 Springwater Road, Aylmer, N5H 2R4
519-773-9037
34308 Lake Line, Port Stanley, N5L 1J1
519-769-0007
Aldred Maple Products produces pure maple syrup sourced from their family maple bush near West Lorne. Look for their sweet products in local stores, at events, or contact them directly to try it for yourself.
15677 Dunborough Road, West Lorne, N0L 2P0
519-287-5012
Our Sugar Bush is a family-operated maple sugar operation that has been producing high-quality maple syrup and products for over 40 years near Straffordville. During the maple season, bring the family out to the farm to sample their delicious syrup and enjoy pancakes hot off the griddle.
8759 Toll Gate Road, Straffordville, N0J 1Y0
519-866-3629
Seafood lovers, rejoice!
Featuring crispy batter, golden chips, and stunning sunsets, these establishments are some of Elgin’s finest when it comes to traditional fish & chips. The only catch here is the fresh fish!
Shors Pub & Eatery, situated directly across from the main beach in Port Bruce, offers a full menu, large licensed patio, and weekly specials that are popular with locals and tourists alike. The restaurant is well-known for its pizza, homemade burgers, locally caught fish, and freshly cut fries. Guests can relish in a delectable meal and a cold beverage while taking in the stunning view of Lake Erie.
This family restaurant in Port Burwell is the perfect spot for seafood lovers, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Located just minutes from the beach and offering a patio lookout view, it's the ideal spot to relax and enjoy a delicious meal with family and friends.
3360 Imperial Road, Port Bruce, N5H 2R2
519-933-4422
Explore Barnacles, a locally owned pub and eatery open all year round, featuring a diverse menu of locally caught perch and pickerel, pizza, burgers, and more. Join them for live music and themed events, earning it a place as a local favorite for fantastic food and good times!
Savour the best of SoLo on Main's locally crafted seafood dishes, including the famous Trout Frites, Seafood Laksa, mussels and local perch. Their beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces make for an ideal lunch date, or night out in Port Stanley!
The Steelhead Food Co. Fish Market is a family-owned and operated fresh fish and seafood market, open year-round, dedicated to providing their customers with exceptional service. Find local Lake Erie favourites such as perch and pickerel alongside some of the freshest saltwater seafood in the province. Shop other local goods that pair perfectly in their retail shop, from handcrafted hot sauces to local honey.
Your Fish & Chips is a traditional fish and chips joint, having perfected their recipes over decades in business. People travel from all over the country for a bite of these delicious fish and chips that feature local potatoes and light & flakey fresh fish. Family-owned for generations, stop by and enjoy the traditional atmosphere, delicious food, and family vibes.
Main
Talbot Street, St. Thomas, N5P 1C8
Feel-good products at feel-good prices!
Shop fresh, local, and artisan baked-goods, produce, meats and much more at our community-owned and operated markets.
Experience the vibrant Horton Farmers’ Market, a cherished locale for fresh, local produce, community engagement, and socializing. Established in 1878, this market embodies St. Thomas’ rich cultural fabric. With a commitment to local vendors, discover an array of exquisite offerings including fruits, vegetables, meats, artisanal foods, and drinks like Rise and Ruin Cider, alongside hand-crafted treasures. Open every Saturday morning from May to November.
Debackere Farm Market is an ideal stop when travelling to or from Port Stanley beach, offering a variety of locally sourced and freshly harvested produce. The market is stocked with other treasures such as fresh flowers, preserves, granola, maple syrup, and much more!
10 Manitoba Street, St.Thomas, N5P3A2
519-868-5551
Fire Hall Market: Located in the heart of the village in a beautifully restored fire hall, the Port Stanley Fire Hall Market offers local artisan products and is open year round. Featuring a butcher, baker, florist, produce, cheese, salads, soups & sandwiches, and foods to go, there is always something unique.
218 Joseph Street, Port Stanley, N5L 1C4
519-317-4522
Located between London & St. Thomas, you can find Howe Farm Market & Country Bakery. Howe's is packed with fresh local produce, jams, preserves, local meat, cheese, bread, and eggs! They have some fantastic take-home meals, (like mac & cheese and quiche), incredible soups and must-try homemade baked goods. If it's in season and grown in Ontario, they will have it!
This rustic market, nestled within the historic old tobacco plant in Aylmer, offers a unique and charming shopping experience. The market boasts an impressive collection of artisanal products, ranging from handcrafted jewelry and pottery to locally sourced produce and freshly baked goods. Open on Saturdays year-round!
11143
516 John Street, Unit 6D, Aylmer, N5H 2B8
226-313-4311
Every Friday night, Wildflowers Market welcomes farmers, food producers, chefs, artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs to share their passions and talents with you. There is something for everyone to enjoy at the farm, whether you come to shop, plant yourself in the garden patio sipping botanical cocktails and brews, listen to live music (and watch the chickens roam free!), or stroll through the gardens, you are left with a sense of calm and connection to nature and community.
42338 Fruit Ridge Line, St. Thomas, N5P 3S9
226-926-6432
Visit Brandywine Family Farm in West Lorne for grass-fed lamb, free-range eggs, and you-pick experiences starting in July, all with a focus on sustainability. Explore the seasonal farm store stocked with local honey, maple syrup, and more. Stay updated on store hours and exciting new events like pop-up markets, cooking classes, and outdoor events on their website and social media pages!
25714
Located in Vienna, the Countryside Farmers Market is a go-to destination for local produce and fresh-baked goods. With the popular onsite food truck, and a classic Christmas Market, Countryside is a local hub of activity!
A family-owned and operated farmers market, offering the community high-quality local produce, coffee, baked goods, preserves, and the craftsmanship of neighborhood artisans.
Proudly the oldest farmers' market in Southwestern Ontario, the Aylmer Sales Arena & Farmers Market welcomes visitors every Tuesday during market season (May through October) for the freshest local produce, baked goods, and local artisans.
51 Murray Street, Aylmer, N5H 2A6
519-765-2211
Howe Family Farm Market is your destination for fresh, delicious, homegrown produce. When visiting the market, you’ll find locally grown fruits and vegetables, along with a variety of meats, cheeses, preserves, milk, and Howe’s home-made soups! You can also find their scratch-made baked good and other seasonal favourites.
Experience the taste of tradition and quality at Mistyglen Creamery, a family-owned dairy farm on the outskirts of Belmont. Enjoy the farm-fresh milk products, cheese curds, yogurt, eggs, meats, and cheeses, alongside a wide selection of local artisanal products at the charming on-farm market store. The farm also hosts fun educational events year-round!
48956 John Wise Line, Aylmer, N5H 2R4 226-244-1737
47008 Yorke Line, Belmont, N0L 1B0
519-872-6455
Discover year-round freshness at Briwood Market, where you can find everything from fresh produce, dairy, and meat to bulk foods, pet supplies, and a garden center. Open seven days a week, Briwood is your place to support local farmers while enjoying quality goods.
1030 Talbot
519-633-9691
Sip in style with the best local wines and brews available!
Sprawling wineries and vineyards provide Instagram-worthy backdrops for a glass of your new favourite wine, and our breweries are where craft beer lovers go to enjoy locally brewed ales and stouts.
Coming soon to the Port Stanley harbourfront!
Discover the perfect pairing of hand-crafted beer and exceptional cuisine in Port Stanley's newest hotspot. The Dominion of Canada building will soon house a craft brewery and restaurant, boasting a stunning view of the harbour and lift bridge. With a rotating selection of seasonal beers and seltzers, plus a full menu featuring delectable dishes, this is one landmark you won't want to miss.
Looking for a unique and memorable wine-tasting experience? Look no further than Quai du Vin, situated in the stunning countryside of Central Elgin. With its prime location nestled among lush vineyards and rolling hills, Quai du Vin offers an idyllic setting for sipping lovely wines from this new emerging region. Quai du Vin is more than just a winery— it's an experience. Take in the breathtaking scenery as you sip on a glass of your favourite wine, or explore the vineyards. With friendly and knowledgeable staff on hand to guide you through your tasting, you're sure to leave Quai du Vin with a newfound passion for this hidden gem.
Natterjack is where craft beer lovers come to enjoy unique flavoured beer with a hint of locally grown produce in every sip. Meander to the village of Eagle to check out what’s on tap, enjoy a pint where the brew magic happens, or sip on some suds on their spacious patio. Enjoy Natterjack’s brews in the comfort of your own home with brews-to-go from their retail store. Keep an eye on their Facebook and Instagram page for a plethora of events and activities held throughout the year. CHEERS!
Railway City Brewing’s story began in 2008, with a small location in downtown St.Thomas. Back then, they set out to start a local brewery entrenched in the history and folklore from years past. The idea was to create a brewery that honoured the history and heritage of our small industrial town. Over the years as the craft brewing industry expanded, so did Railway City. In 2013, the brewery expanded locations to its current home at 130 Edward Street. Here you can visit their taproom for brews and pizza, enjoy a patio in the summer, come for live music events and comedy nights, as well as tours, tastings, and so much more.
Caps Off Brewing is a small brewery located in the heart of downtown St. Thomas. They pride themselves in using high-quality, local ingredients in creative brews. The taproom and winter patio are cozy and full of life, often featuring live music and community events. Each visit you’ll be surprised by a new local artist! Sit and stay awhile with a flight and a soft pretzel, or take a growler and cans to go.
Rush Creek Wines is located just north from the shores of Lake Erie and is proudly one of the finest fruit-based and international award-winning wineries in Ontario carrying on the tradition of handcrafted wines. They also have a large inventory of collectibles, including Matchbox and Hot Wheels originals, sports memorabilia, trading cards, and much more. Complimentary tours and tastings are always available.
From the Vines is a premiere wine-tasting bar. It is a cozy place for those looking for a relaxing, upscale experience without the high price tag. They serve a range of wine products, including exclusive and unique VQA wines. Stop by for a wine tasting, charcuterie, or one of their evening events. Explore something new with each and every visit as wines come and go, and the menu changes seasonally.
Choose the best of the bunch with our pick-your-own experiences!
These local fruit farms are filled with fresh, juicy berries, crisp apples, and seasonal specialties that will have you coming back year after year.
Great Lakes Farms offers a variety of activities, from weddings to group dinners, farm tours, and pick-your-own fruits including apples, strawberries, pears, and pumpkins. During the fall season, visitors can enjoy wagon rides, corn mazes, children's play areas, and orchard visits for fresh apple and pumpkin picking. After a long day of exploring the farm, guests can unwind in the café and enjoy homemade apple treats and cider.
Bluegroves Farms is the largest organic blueberry farm in southwestern Ontario, offering six different blueberry varieties from late July to the end of August. Visitors can handpick their own blueberries and indulge in a range of delicious blueberry-based products from the farm's bakery, which runs until Christmas time. From pies to ice cream, juices, syrups, and jams, there is something for everyone to savour.
Enjoy the tastes of the season at Ferguson's Produce! Bring the entire family to the farm to pick your own produce, from plump strawberries in June and July to sweet corn in August and luscious fall raspberries. In October, the farm transforms into a fall wonderland, complete with a corn maze and pumpkin patch. And when it's time to head home, don't forget to pick up some of the farm's delicious preserves made with only the freshest ingredients.
Visit the pick-your-own apple orchard along Hwy #3 east of Aylmer for a fun family experience. Choose from a range of delicious apple varieties, including Honeycrisp and Macintosh, while enjoying the fresh country air. Don’t forget to grab their freshly pressed Apple Cider, perfect for enjoying at home.
Step off the beaten path and explore our favourite local gems across Elgin!
These savvy spots offer a wide range of local-made goods and products, like natural lavender tea, artisan wood-fired pizza, and homemade chocolates.
Visit the most stunning lavender gardens in Ontario's South Coast region. Stroll amongst the lavender flowers, capture a perfect Instagram-worthy photo in front of the beautiful purple backdrop, and take in the magnificent views. In the gift shop, they offer natural, locally made lavender products.
47589 Sparta Line, Aylmer, N5H 2R4 226-236-5530
Founded in 2005, direct-trade micro-roaster Las Chicas Del Café is dedicated to carrying top-quality Nicaraguan coffee. They are grower direct. Visit the roastery to pick up the freshest beans or partake in a workshop. BONUS! Visit Streamliners Espresso Bar across the street to have Las Chicas beans brewed for you to perfection.
750 Talbot Street, St. Thomas, N5P 1E2 519-652-3642
Enjoy mouth-watering smoked meats at The Smokin' Caboose BBQ, a family-run smoke shack with two locations: one on Talbot Line, just on the edge of St. Thomas, and the other at the Kettle Creek Golf Club in Port Stanley. Their delicious menu features brisket, pulled pork, chicken, sausages, sandwiches, wraps, ribs, poutine, and a variety of sides, with Southern smoked BBQ taking center stage at both stops.
Grassroots offers a new and unique dining experience. Find house aged steaks, artistic cocktail creations, and delicious seasonal menus.
43743 Talbot Line, St. Thomas, N5P 3S7
519-633-6328
100 Wilson Ave, St. Thomas, N5R 3R2 519-631-1429
Visit Elgin Harvest, a charming pizzeria, which is the home of Neapolitan-style sourdough wood-fired pizzas that come topped with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that change seasonally. Indulge in a slice of authenticity with every bite at this one-of-a-kind pizza joint.
Grab a bite before or after hitting the beach or heading out on the water. The menu is full of delicious items such as homemade burgers, fresh-cut fries, wraps, a full breakfast menu, Shaw’s ice cream, and more!
Historic, haunted, very unique dining experience with Traditional English food, High Teas, and the largest collection of tea pots in Elgin County. Family run business in the quaint historic village of Sparta.
Travel the world with your taste buds!
Explore Mexico with sizzling chicken fajitas and savoury tacos, or visit The Land of Smiles with a mouthwatering bowl of pad thai and coconut rice. Come experience authentic tastes from around the world, right here in Elgin.
A SMALL TASTE
This is just a small sampling of all the diverse cuisine you can experience right in our region. For a full listing visit elgintourist.com or railwaycitytourism.com did you know?
The Gordita Shop in Aylmer is a Mexican/Mennonite restaurant known for their delicious homemade dishes. Their featured item, the Gordita, is a must-try for those looking for an authentic taste of Mexico. Dine-in customers can also enjoy sizzling Chicken Fajitas, and don’t forget about dessert—their Gordita Shop Style Churros are the perfect way to end your meal!
99 Talbot Street West, Aylmer, N5H 1H4
226-234-7795
Based on a family tradition that started in 1989, The Fritter Shop brings a fresh flavour to what dessert can be. All of their fritters are made fresh daily with local ingredients from Ontario suppliers.
779 Talbot Street, St. Thomas, N5P 1E3
519-631-2830
A homestyle, authentic, fusion of tastes from all over the Caribbean. Serving foods that are vegan/vegetarian, dairy free, gluten free, plant-based oils, roti, rice, curried-stewed-and-jerked meats
29 Wellington Street, Port Burwell, N0J1T0
(519) 550-6206
Enjoy delicious Thai cuisine in a beautiful heritage setting. Proudly a family-owned and operated authentic Thai and conveniently located downtown.
295 Talbot Street, St. Thomas, N5P 1B5
519.633.9966
Experience authentic Mexican flavours at Greta's Taco Wagon, located just outside of Aylmer. Indulge in their classic ground beef tacos served on plain or crispy fried tortillas, or savour their mouth-watering burritos. Looking for an appetizer? Try their nacho supreme, a perfect combination of tortilla chips, seasoned ground beef, nacho cheese sauce, diced ripe tomatoes, and sour cream. Soft-serve ice cream is available
550 Talbot Street West, Aylmer, N5H 2W2
226-236-0163
At Plaza Sushi, their mission is focused on fresh ingredients and sharing elevated takes on traditional sushi options. With the upscale dine-in restaurant now open, the menu has expanded to include soups, noodle entrees, bao, poke and more—all impeccably presented. Enjoy local craft beer or traditional sake alongside your meal. Take-out orders are also available.
877 Talbot Street, St. Thomas, N5P 1E5
519-207-4496
Savor the diverse flavors of Thai, Cambodian, Vietnamese, and Canadian cuisine in the heart of West Lorne at this charming small-town favourite restaurant.
With 20 years of experience cooking in the finest Indian restaurants, the Clay Oven is excited to present their vision of top quality authentic Indian cuisine. They source as much as they can from local farm markets to ensure the freshest ingredients. Their caring staff will be sure you have a fantastic experience.
178 Main Street, West Lorne, N0L 2P0
519-768-3432
648 Talbot Street, St. Thomas, N5P 1c8
519-637-8777
Experience an exotic fine-dining atmosphere and excellent service! Le Cafe Siam is family owned and operated, and offers a variety of authentic Thai items served to you in a heritage building decorated with traditional royal Thai art. The menu is traditional Thai cuisine only, along with a quality selection of wines, or bring your own wine from a commercially licensed establishment to enjoy.
392 Talbot Street, St. Thomas, N5P 1B8
519-637-2287
Shors Pub & Eatery
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