The Niagara region is one of TO’s go-to getaways for the fam. We’ve got the goods on where to make your resos on-the-lake or in the city proper, whether your kids are toddlers looking for a little fun to go with their dinner, or grown-ups in hot pursuit of a glass of locally produced wine.
If you’ve taken a tour of the modern-industrial meets Canadiana cabin that is Jackson Triggs Niagara, may we suggest sticking around for a nosh at the regionally inspired restaurant inside? This winery specializes in Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs and Rieslings, all of which pair well with hearty meat- and fish-based Canadian fare, accented by herbs and veggies grown on-site in the winery’s very own garden.
Victoria Avenue hosts one of the Falls’ most beloved pizzerias and Italian eateries that’s perfect for the grown-up fam and toddlers alike. The sprawling space hosts three dining areas and can comfortably host large parties. Choose from authentic pasta dishes like gnocchi della casa (homemade tomato sauce and mozzarella) and veal parmigiana accompanied by spaghetti, or pizzas that run the full gamut – from margherita to the spicy Siciliana (accompanied by anchovies, black olives, hot peppers and Sicilian sausage).
Actual sisters Angela and Melissa are the brains behind this stately vineyard, and some of the most prominent champions of Niagara wines in the larger spirits market, to boot. Their Niagara vineyard is a must-visit, as much to sample the Cabernet Sauvignon and Rosé sparkling, as to learn the inspiring story of this family-run endeavour. As for dinner, Kitchen76 is an upscale, warm space accented by rustic architectural lighting and repurposed wine barrels. The menu boasts an Italian edge: imported delicacies like salumi, Manchego and prosciutto rounded out by fresh pastas, pizzas, and meat and fish dishes.
Host your family Mexican night in Niagara and visit the home of – get ready for it – the 45 oz margarita. Yup, this casual Mexican eatery in Niagara Falls proper is an ideal spot to bring the crew. Kids eat for $6.99 (side and main included), with Taco N Tequila conveniently offering crowd-pleasing favourites like burgers, fries and chicken nuggets in the case of picky eaters. Adults can rather enjoy authentic tex-mex faves and in-house specialties like the enchiladas verdes.
Among the most well known of Niagara's wineries and vineyards, Trius Winery isn’t just good for a tasting. The restaurant is bright and airy in all the right ways, a perfect place to connect with the fam over a weekend away in the region. Ontario mushrooms mingle with ice-wine honey beets, artisan Canadian cheese, Lake Erie fish, and locally sourced duck. You may have tasted the Trius varietals at the LCBO, but there’s a ton more on offer at the winery proper. Be sure to indulge in a flight – you won’t regret it.
Interested in a view to the Falls accompanied by AAA Canadian beef? Located on the 9th floor of the famed Fallsview Hotel, you’ll see the old and young dining here, soaking in one of Niagara Falls’ culinary rites of passage. Enjoy all the likely steakhouse suspects as well as an impressive locally sourced and international wine list. The floor-to-ceiling window wall overlooking the falls is truly a sight to behold.
Located on the mezzanine level of the Marriott Fallsview Hotel and Spa, the Terrapin Grille is an upscale seafood and steakhouse, perfect for a final night dinner on a family getaway. You’ll find updated classics like baked goat cheese, grapefruit and beet salad, Cajun dusted Ontario trout, and duck confit rigatoni, plus striploins, rib eyes, and filet mignon. Book early and nab yourself a table by the window-wall, which looks directly onto the falls. If you’re stopping in for dinner, look out for the evening light show, it’s a must-see.