Local Restaurants

Whether you're dining out or eating in, there are countless ways to experience great food in Essex. Here, we have listed some of our favourite places: take a look at their distinct 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

With a philosophy that fresh local food made from scratch makes the best meal, everything served at Billy’s Taphouse combines taste with regional appeal. With access to the best produce and meats in Essex County, Billy’s consistently produces made-from-scratch favourites: and what’s a great meal without a great drink? This 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 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. With ever-changing “off the menu” specials, you will always have something new to sink your teeth into! 

Canadian Transportation Museum 50's Diner

In between checking out one of the largest vehicle museums in Ontario and the neighboring, rural-focused Heritage Village (a collection of historic buildings dating from 1820 to 1930!), be sure to stop for brunch at the retro 50's diner inside the museum. Enjoy a blast from the past by sitting among the Golden Age greats decorating the walls and stereo of the diner while sinking your teeth into a hearty, savory meal. 

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.

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!

Wood Craft Pizza and Bar

Hand-crafted specialty pizzas to fit everyone’s taste are what you can expect to find at Wood Craft Pizza and Bar. Located in the heart of Essex Centre, enjoy Wood Craft's vibrant atmosphere and try a 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. 

The Wreck at Colchester Harbour

Stop by The Wreck at Colchester Harbour and find yourself enjoying a fantastic meal alongside a stunning view of Lake Erie's bluffs! With two decks to enjoy the view, weather, food and drinks, the Wreck's Lake Erie perch and pickerel, local produce and a wide range of appetizers, burgers and vegan options will surely charm you and bring you back for more. Open seasonally spring to fall.

Vang's Thai Sushi Restaurant

Vang’s Thai Sushi Restaurant is a prized gem among our Town's cuisine.  Specializing 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, that will cement Vang's as a permanent part of your restaurant routine.