Ontario is celebrated worldwide for its exceptional range of fishing experiences. The province has more than 158 species of fish calling our fresh waters home — eight of which are currently Oceanwise certified sustainable.
It’s no wonder then that locally minded chefs are finding inspiration in our rivers and lakes! From whitefish to walleye, perch to pickerel, check out our favorite fish feasts:
Feast ON: Dianne’s
Located just steps from the downtown Kingston waterfront, this little spot is the perfect marriage between classic East Coast and Baja Mexico.
THE DISH: Try the blackened Ontario rainbow trout served alongside a locally sourced pickled green tomatoes.
PAIR IT: A pint of McKinnon Brothers — a farm based brewery from Bath.
Follow Dianne’s Like Dianne’s ‘Gram Dianne’s
Feast ON: Cambridge Mill
This waterside restaurant is home to Chef Brad Lomanto and his earth-to-table philosophy. Grab a drink at the bar or site down for a leisurely fireside dinner.
THE DISH: Fish fiends should definitely try the pickerel served with ricotta gnudi, seasonal veggies and silky beurre blanc.
PAIR IT: Can’t beat a cold glass of West Avenue Cider!
Follow The Cambridge Mill Like The Cambridge Mill
Feast ON: Erie Beach Hotel
This
is fish and chips at it’s finest. The Hotel is famous for it’s Lake Erie perch and it’s celery bread. It ain’t fancy, but it’s mighty delicious.
THE DISH: Lightly battered, perfectly golden perch with a side of equally golden fries and tartar sauce.
PAIR IT: A pint of Ramblin’ Road brewery pilsner from down the road.
Feast ON: Spencer’s At The Waterfront
Sitting above the show, Spencer’s At The Waterfront offers up breathtaking views (especially at sunset!) of Burlington Bay. We recommend reservations.
THE DISH: Their rotating daily catch is always impeccable and always certified sustainable: like this pan seared trout with fennel and barley risotto.
PAIR IT: A chilled glass of Pinot Blanc from Konzelmann Estates usually does the trick.
Like Spencer’s Follow Spencer’s
Feast ON: David’s Restaurant
Located on the shore of Lake Erie overlooking the Long Point Bio Sphere, David’s celebrates the bounty of Norfolk County in every dish — including it’s lakefish.
THE DISH: Get the perch bites to start, and follow up with Corn Flour Crusted Pickerel with tomato caper butter.
PAIR IT: You can’t get more local than pairing the perch with a glass of Smoke & Gamble Reserve Chardonnay from Burning Kiln.
About Oceanwise
Ocean Wise is a conservation program created to educate and empower consumers about the issues surrounding sustainable seafood.
Originally published as part of the Perfect Weekends series on OntarioCulinary.com
