RESTAURANTS
Whether you're dining out or eating in, there are countless ways to experience great food in Essex. Here we have listed our favourite places, take a look at their menus for a specific description of what they have to offer. For a list of wineries that offer a dining experience, go to our wineries page and check out the 'Wine and Dine' section.
Billy's Taphouse
Fresh local food made from scratch, the philosophy at Billy’s Taphouse. This shows in everything they serve. A quick glance will tell you that the lamb for the Pulled Lamb Wrap comes from Woodslee’s Ewe Dell Farms or that the beef for the “Billy Burger” comes from Schinkels’ Meat Market right here in Essex. With access to the best produce and meats in Essex County, Billy’s kitchen consistently produces made-from-scratch favourites alongside in-house specials for the weekend. What’s a great meal without a great drink? This regional hotspot features a wide selection of Essex County wines and an even wider selection of Ontario craft beers.
Brenko's House of Pizza
Calling all pizza lovers! Brenko’s House of Pizza offers a unique twist on your favorite pizzas by serving Buffalo, New York style crust: crispy on the outside, light and fluffy on the inside. Try their fan favorite Hawaiian BBQ with roasted chicken and grilled pineapple, or the Popeye pizza with spinach and garlic, placed on a bed of tomato sauce.Brenko’s also cooks up savoury wings, pastas, and soups. With ever-changing “off the menu” specials, you will always have something new to sink your teeth into! Sit inside or out on the patio and enjoy a pint from Walkerville Brewery with friends, share one of Brenko’s mouth-watering pizzas, and just relax in their casual bar setting. Brenko’s second-floor banquet room also serves as a cozy venue to host your next private party.
Canadian Transportation Museum 50's Diner
In between checking out one of the largest vehicle museums in Ontario and the Heritage Village, a collection of historic buildings dating from 1820 to 1930, be sure to stop for lunch at the retro 50's diner inside the museum.
Garfield's
Meet the restaurant that acts as a cozy diner by morning and an exciting pub by night! At Garfield’s, you can always expect that personable County Road 50 charm in a casual dining environment. From classic pub-fare to completely reimagined dishes, Garfield’s has all the menu items you’ve been craving. Take a peek at their extensive menu and pick from fan favorites such as the gooey mozzarella-stick grilled cheese and crispy Lake Erie Perch. With fresh local ingredients decorating each dish, your taste buds can indulge in a variety of foods such as meats from Uptown Meats and yellow perch straight from the Colchester docks.
Mama's Place
Enter as friends, leave as family. That is the promise at Mama’s Place Italian Restaurant! Entirely family-owned and operated, Mama’s Place serves delicious Italian cuisine using only the finest ingredients. Sink your teeth into classic Italian dishes like Antonio’s gnocchi, served in a light blush sauce with bacon and spinach, or try the local-favorite Pablo’s chicken, lightly-breaded chicken breast simmered in a creamy blush sauce. Specials change weekly, which means new and innovative off-the-menu items are cooked-up on the regular. Immerse yourself in a family-oriented environment and enjoy a no-fuss dining experience. When eating at Mama’s Place, you know you’re in the hands of people who are passionate about exceptional cooking.
The Beerded Dog Brewing Co.
The Beerded Dog Brewing Company is a micro-brewery pub that offers craft beer, wine and local spirits in a casual laid-back and fun atmosphere. They aim to please everyone from the experienced craft beer connoisseur to the family night out. From mouth-watering good food to the best local craft brews, The Beerded Dog will not disappoint!
Vang's Thai Sushi
Vang’s specializes in creating fresh Oriental cuisine that will take you on a culinary journey across Asia. Enjoy tasty Thai, Japanese sushi, Vietnamese pho and classic Chinese dishes along with a great selection of desserts and beverages.
Wood Craft Pizza and Bar
Hand-crafted specialty pizzas to fit everyone’s taste are what you can expect at Wood Craft Pizza and Bar, located in the heart of Essex Centre. Enjoy a cozy atmosphere and indulge in freshly baked pizzas, just how you like them! Be sure to try out the taco pizza and meat pie pizza, which get nothing but fantastic reviews. In addition to their mouth-watering pizzas, they have not-your-average bar fare like calamari, arancini, and eggplant parmesan rolls. With specials changing every week, there will always be new menu items to sink your teeth into. For those classic rock and 90s music fans out there, come and enjoy live entertainment Thursday through Saturday consisting of local bands and performers.
The Wreck at Colchester Harbour
Casual lake-view dining on the shore of Lake Erie with two decks to enjoy the view, weather, food and drinks! Stop by and enjoy Lake Erie perch and pickerel, local produce and a wide range of appetizers, burgers and vegan options!
Open seasonally spring to fall.