Best Places To Eat In Stratford Ontario

Two decades. That’s how long I’ve been road tripping to Stratford, Ontario. Once the home of Thomas Edison and Justin Bieber (fun fact: I used to see him busking in front of the Avon Theatre when he was little), it’s also home to many incredibly talented chefs and farmers. This is great news for those who travel via their stomachs (aka me). With a constantly evolving food scene that’s driven by fresh, local ingredients and passionate chefs who continue to innovate and push boundaries, Stratford is a must-visit destination for foodies…

While I’ve embarked on a few culinary trips to Stratford in the past (this one was even guided by a local), I’ve never shared a comprehensive list of my favourite spots. Well, my friends, the time has come. Here’s where I think you should head for the best food and drink in Stratford:

Best Places To Eat In Stratford Ontario

Best Restaurants In Stratford

Braai House – I did a double take when I heard the word braai. The last time I experienced one was in Cape Town so I was beyond excited to see a South African inspired restaurant in Stratford! Specializing in open-fire cooking, these guys make some mouthwatering Smoked Back Ribs and Boerewors Chakalaka. The service is on point and the interiors are gorgeous so you’re getting the full experience here. Book ahead as they’re very popular.

Edison’s Cafe Bar – Not only is this café housed under Edison’s former residence (how cool is that?!), but they serve up high quality food and bev options. Go here for the avocado toast. Thank me later.

Pazzo Taverna and Pizzeria – If you’re in the mood for Italian, this is the resto for you. Head down to the cellar for some amazing thin-crust pizza, devour house made pastas and locally-sourced ingredients at the Taverna, enjoy a meal on their glorious patio OR place a takeout order and dine Al Fresco at one of the designated spots around town. Regardless of where you eat, you’ll be in for a treat!

Revival House – We happened to be in Stratford the day they opened this restaurant in 2015 so I was excited to circle back and see how it’s transformed over the years. It’s actually even better than I remember. This is a special property — the architecture, the way light enters the former church, the patio dotted with over 1400 flowers. Pure magic…

The menu surprised us at first, but when we heard the sous chef is Laotian it all made sense. Expect everything from beef larb and nam khao to avocado tempura!

The Red Rabbit – This restaurant never disappoints. I’ve dined here a handful of times and they always knock it out of the park! Their worker-owned restaurant model is an interesting concept (you can read more about that here), but it’s the food that keeps locals and visitors coming back for more. Book your resos well in advance as this spot fills up fast.

The Planet Diner – “Where herbivores can bring their carnivores.” Those were the words that drew me into this retro diner, but it was Dee (the owner) who was the reason I stayed. Passionate about making comfort food that’s plant-based, she sources local ingredients and tries to reduce her environmental footprint via choices in her kitchen. I recommend trying the Chick’Un Burger and hear her donuts have quite the following!

Bijou Restaurant – You’ll find farm-to-table eats executed with finesse here. The chalkboard menu changes frequently depending on what’s fresh, but you’re guaranteed dishes featuring Perth County’s best ingredients.

The Prune Restaurant – The OG of Stratford’s culinary scene, this resto has been around since 1977 and is much-loved by locals. It also happens to be the first restaurant I remember dining at in Stratford AND where little Luka took his very first steps a couple years ago. I digress. Expect ingredients from local artisans and producers to be featured in the dishes here. Attentive service and a romantic ambiance make it the perfect date night spot.

Grounded Vegan Cafe – Stratford local, Mark Lass, introduced me to this café when I visited for my eating with a local series and I’m still dreaming about Heather’s vegan “cheesecake.” All of the dishes here are made from scratch and are delish!

The Common Stratford – A Stratford Chefs School alum, Chef Tim Otsuki spent years cooking abroad (from Hong Kong to the Caribbean) before circling back to Stratford. Expect fusion cuisine dreamt up by a passionate chef, gorgeous interiors and a lively patio.

Best Coffee Shops In Stratford

Revel Coffee – You’ll feel the pulse of the community at this coffee shop. Every time I step inside it feels like everyone knows each other. Some go for the pastries, others for the direct trade coffee. I go for both!

The Livery Yard – It was my first time checking out this coffee shop (the Chocolate Trail led us here) and it won’t be the last! Interiors are airy and beautiful (the building is a historical livery stable that’s been renovated), the mocha was amazing and the service was friendly. The perfect spot to hang out and people watch from the window.

Balzac’s Coffee Roasters – Ah yes, another famous name from Stratford! I have a special place in my heart for Balzac’s and remember visiting years ago (in the 90s) before all the other locations were launched across the province. It’s an institution in Stratford so grab a cup of coffee and slip to the back patio to enjoy!

Best Sweet Treats In Stratford

JENN & Larry’s – The cutest little ice cream shop I ever did see. I’ve had many many cones from JENN & Larry’s over the years and they’ve all been fab. The father-daughter duo are also known for their hand spun milkshakes (a 50-year-old recipe!), peanut brittle and fun flavours. The only challenge you’ll have is deciding what flavour to order…

Madelyn’s Diner – This retro diner is a must-visit when in Stratford. Locals love their all-day breakfast, but it’s the butter tarts that have me going back time and time again. Apparently I’m not the only one — this is one of Justin Bieber’s fave spots for family dinners and breakfasts in Stratford!

CHOCOLATE. Do I have your attention? If you’re a chocolate lover like me, you’ll be thrilled to learn that Stratford has a self-guided Chocolate Trail! You can go the traditional route, the adventurous route (dark chocolate balsamic vinegar or chocolate tea anyone?) or perhaps a bit of both as you hop around town. Whichever journey you choose, I’m certain it will be a tasty one! Here are two I never miss when I embark on the Chocolate Trail:

Chocolate Barr’s Candies – These guys have been around for 17 years and make some incredible chocolates, truffles, candies, brittles etc. My fave? Their balsamic vinegar truffle!

Rhéo Thompson Candies – When I step inside this store, I feel like I’ve been transported back in time. I love the classic feel of the shop and hope they never change! They’ve been making chocolate since 1969 and are known for their famous Mint Smoothies Chocolates.

Other Things To Do While In Stratford

This walkable town is a dream for wanderers. No plans needed, just follow your curiosities and you’ll find all of the right spots for you. Here are a few that always make my list…

Shakespearean Gardens – This gem is one of my favourite spots in Stratford. Lined with over 60 varieties of herbs, flowers, and shrubs (all mentioned in Shakespeare’s plays) it’s a beautiful place to take a stroll.

Black Swan Brewing Co. – Launched by two teachers after years of home brewing, this brewing company is much-loved by locals. They have indoor and patio seating so grab a pint and cheers to hometown brews!

Illume Wellness Spa – Spa, my favourite three-letter word. This certified green spa specializes in eco-friendly practices and uses clean beauty products. They offer organic treatments and even have a salt room for halotherapy! We opted for pedicures and a salt room sesh and it was lovely.

Stratford Festival – Theatre is the heart of Stratford. Once things return back to normal and they re-open, you’ll want to book your Stratford Festival tickets ASAP. Trust me, you don’t want to miss it. As North America’s largest classical repertory theatre company, they present more than a dozen productions each season and are truly world class.

Avon Boat Rentals – And lastly, no trip to Stratford is complete without a little adventure on the serene Avon River that weaves through town. I always go for the paddle boats, but they also have canoes and kayaks available for rent. The famous swans await!

Hope this post inspires you to visit Stratford for a little getaway. I promise it will leave you feeling relaxed, happy and very very full!

A huge thanks to Stratford Tourism for hosting us and sponsoring this post. As always, all reviews and opinions are my very own.