St. Catharines, Canada, is situated in the southern part of Ontario, south of Toronto. The biggest city in the Niagara Region, it is a culinary hub, and with many wineries, farmers’ markets and its own unique food culture. We list the top 10 local restaurants that St. Cathariners rate highly.
A firm favourite of St Catharines for the last twenty years, Fresco’s Euro Grille serves an international array of dishes, together with impeccable service. They only use the freshest ingredients to create their great tasting appetizers, mains and desserts. By using their own homemade recipes, Fresco’s guarantees to recreate that home-cooked taste and memorable meals. The restaurant also gives back to those in need in the area, and has raised a large amount of funds for various charitable organisations over the years.
First opened Wellington Court over twenty years ago, the well-established and popular family run restaurants known throughout Ontario. Often named as one of the top dining spots in the Niagara Region, the menu at Wellington Court emphasizes the beauty and bounty of what the area has to offer. Local cuisine is created using the highest quality and freshest ingredients.
Located in downtown St Catharines is Rise Above, and all vegan restaurant and bakery. Their concept is unique to the city, as they only use plant-based ingredients to create their menu. The restaurant promotes healthy eating, and serves nutritious versions of popular comfort foods and freshly baked desserts. There are also gluten-free options.
Pier 61 Bar and Grill opened in 2013, making it a recent addition to St Catharines’ culinary scene. Pier 61 specialize in creating a refined but approachable casual dining experience. Their menu is inspired by international cuisines, and is created using the freshest ingredients with big flavor. These dishes are coupled with Pier 61’s exceptional wine, beer and cocktail menu.
For the flavors and flair of Italian cooking in St Catharines, Coppola’s Ristorante and Banquet Facility comes up with the goods. Serving authentic Italian cuisine in a warm and inviting setting, Coppola’s has become of the most popular restaurants in the Niagara Region. There are a wide range of menus available, with dishes to suit robust appetites.
Meaning little elephant, Chang Noi’s Thai Cuisine is a celebration of Thai food and culture. For the last five years, Chang Noi has attracted food lovers from all over the Niagara Region and beyond with their tantalising authentic Thai menu. Dishes are created using homemade recipes and family taught techniques. The food not only tastes delightful, but is also beautifully presented.
The Blue Mermaid Seafood and Steakhouse has served five-star cuisine to the locals of St Catharines since 1976. The décor of The Blue Mermaid is eye-catching, with its nautical theme. Other intriguing furnishings include the 10-foot oak doors, the 20-foot ceilinged rotunda complete and the ornate brass chandelier. The main dining area is upstairs, but there is also a semi-private space, for more intimate dining.
The Upper Deck Taphouse and Grill brings casual contemporary eating to St Catharines. The menu features old favorites, but with a modern twist. Popular choices include their burgers, which are made with lean ground chuck and seasoned with their special blend of spices. If burgers aren’t your thing, then their sandwich and wrap menu or their list of succulent mains will satisfy your appetite. Diners can enjoy their meal indoors in the main dining area or in private booths, or outdoors on their 40 seat patio, with its panoramic views of the beautiful Twelve Mile Creek.
The building of the Lake House Restaurant dates back to the nineteenth century. The menu is a fusion of European dishes, with escargot, brie skillet, fior di latte bruschetta, thin crust pizzas, risotto and paella being popular choices. The restaurant has a large indoor dining space, as well as an outdoor patio area and a private room. The space showcases much of the original décor, with the original woodwork, exposed brick walls and fireplaces still intact and preserved.
