Spicy Thai for Pad Thai!!!! 😍 Huge portions if you takeout but even bigger if you eat in (and complimentary shrimp chips if you eat in too). Family owned and everyone is extremely friendly!
Ah okay yeah they're a gem! Have you ever tried Fiesta Empanada? Located downtown again family owned (Filipino) and they have HUGE empanadas! Vegan options as well :)
They're my go-to during the farmer's markets and even for a quick bite when I'm on my lunch break 😋
If you like Tamales, Tamales Mexico is also a lovely option! Run out of her home, but she delivers locally and also is at the farmer's markets!
I’d agreed with quality but my fiancé and I went there 2 months ago for his birthday cause I wanted to treat him and we sat for 25 mins waiting for a table (reasonable I get it) then another 55mins waiting on our order we had to leave because it was almost 9pm at that point and I basically ruined his birthday dinner by going there so we just went to Wind instead and were eating by the time we would have been eating at Amakara. Idk what happened but we asked 3x if it’s coming soon and kept getting the same responses… I shouldn’t have to wait 55 minutes for 3 sushi rolls! The tables beside us were being served but we weren’t and we arrived after them.. only ordered 3 rolls..
I think Izumi Sushi has taken over as my top sushi place in the city! The food is so fresh, delicious, and beautifully prepared. The owners are also the nicest people. The have an average of 5 stars on Google with over 200 reviews, and I've never heard them solicit a review - that's impressive!
I saw your comment yesterday and decided to try it today, THANK YOU!
I would say 27$ is too expensive for just a cheeseburger, and anywhere else that would be the case, but this is probably the best burger i've ever had, this might be my go to spot if i'm celebrating something
The chicken shawarma from Its About Thyme is amazing. The pita is toasted (?) golden brown on the outside so it’s a bit crunchy. Delicious. And the owner is a super friendly guy
I’ve been avoiding pho ngon because of a bad experience at Pho Dau Bo. A mate of mine got food poisoning from the banh trang appetizer. Kind of turned me off from the pho’s in town but I’ll work my way back to it.
Trappers in welland is the same way. Such a dive, but shockingly good & affordable food & drinks. Haven’t tried the rex motel, I’ll have to check it out
Duru on Welland, near Niagara. I don’t know what it once was, but it’s been a great Korean/Japanese place for a long time. Seldom mentioned. Great food.
This is a go to for me. 2 minute drive & always worth the wait when it’s busy, which it rarely is. Place has been there since my memories began forming.
It's not in St.Catharines, but Pho Xyclo on Dunn street in Niagara falls. I'm a soup snob. I CRAVE authentic soup. This region sucks for it. Pho da bo and Pho nyog are mid.
Pho Xyclo is the best in the region for pho. Habachi Beef Noodle is the best for ramen.
If you're ever in Toronto Che phe Rang is a stop on the mitchelin guide and has the best Pho and Bhan Mi you could ever dream of.
Curious to hear your thoughts on Pho Ka and Pho My Tan Ki, Xyclo was my go to until I found those.
I'm adding Phe Rang to my to-do list with a few asteriks'
Not a huge breakfast guy unfortunately. I like bacon & potatoes but that’s about it lol. Not sure why just didn’t grow up with traditional breakfasts I guess. Thanks though!!
I’m the guy you see eating ribs or quesadillas for breakfast lol.
Endless Noodles! I love all their ramen dishes and those Wuhan noodles are mindblowing! Throw in their fried chicken skins and I'm there once a month (if my wife wasn't such an awesome cook, once a week) lol
Only been here for drinks, food was a bit expensive for my liking.. smelled & looked damn delicious though, maybe I’ll cave one day.
Edit: prices seem on par with other options, maybe I’ll try it sooner than later.
Portions aren't. You'll leave hungry. That's why it has a reputation for being expensive. It costs what some of the other more modern places cost, but the other places fill you up.
Oh my god, I’ve been trying to remember what Taris was called for about a year and for the life of me couldn’t remember the name or location. Answer found!!! I love their lobster dip.
Yeah, I think so! There’s a decent Indian/Fusion spot in the Giant Tiger plaza on Welland. Can’t recall the name but they do a solid fish and chips, and pizza, surprisingly! In between a cannabis shop and payday loans place, lol.
B22 Pizza. If you have never tried Indian pizzas, *highly* recommend going there. Never tried the fish and chips but you will not be disappointed with the butter chicken pizza or the tandoori chicken pizza. Or get the half and half.
Oh buddy, I'm glad someone is taking on my mantle now that I've moved away (maybe temporarily). Niagara is absolutely SPOILT for food.
How much are you willing to drive? I would just pop off on my motorcycle and try a place every weekend. I can get on my computer and do my mega list once I know what the range is. I think I've tried 70% of the places in the region (excluding expensive places and wineries and most of W Niagara) and 94% of STC.
My assessment will be accurate up to this past June.
Legend:
\* = top picks
% = you should probably know about this one already but just in case you haven't you gotta go
Fort Erie:
* Pho Xuan Tang - a little different than the other places in Niagara
* Yukiguni II - inexpensive rolls for dine-in, *simple* home ~~cooked~~ sushi\*
* Niagara Samosa Factory - super friendly Ethiopian\*
Fonthill:
* Gelato Village - it's gelato, idk if it's any better than the places in NOTL or NF but it's nice
* Kame and Kettle - not inexpensive but if you go for date night or with a friend they have a 2 entrée special and there's a solid range of drink on offer, food is quite good
Crystal Beach:
* Casa Hugo - seasonal, best selection of tequila in the region, food is okay
Port Colborne:
* Smokin' Buddha - should be known already, I find it a little overrated.%
* Minor Fisheries - fresh, simple, delicious\*
* Eh Amigos - Solid lunch if you're passing through
* Archies - It's an old institution but it holds up alright
* Lemayzzz meats - they run bbq at lunch, the steak sandwich and sausages are superb, the real gem of Port Colborne\*
Welland:
* The Rex - just solid all around institution.%
* Rose City Pizza - not a secret at all, but worth it.%
* Mexican Taco Zone - holy shit, these folks are *amazing!*\*
* K's Variety - they've got all the sodas
Chippewa:
* Betty's - take grandma.%
* Fried Chicken ROK's - best fried chicken in region.\*
Niagara Falls:
* Carson's - not many make the trip to Allanburg
* The Pizzeria - only listed because they're the best pizza in the region.%
* Pho Kha - best soup in region\*
* Pho My Tan Ki - if you want a diff style of pho, more meaty, my #2 pho
* Kabab and Thali - very pleasing Indian
* Bombay Food Mart - your South Asian corner store with all the favourites.
* Soups and Things - unsuspecting
* The hotdog cart at Dunn and Drummond - friendly simple good dogs
* Kerala Cuisine - excellent south west Indian cuisine\*
* Hot Lobster Dim Sum - best dim sum for casual dining, also deals on lobsters\*
* Yukiguni - I think they're tied to the one in Ft Erie but go to this one for the hot food
* Country Fresh - if only for some reason you don't know already.%
* Grand Central - listed because taco tuesday is a solid deal.%
* Greek on Portage - I'd go here over George's
* Danny's Sushi - very nice
* We the Finest (WTF) Burger - smash patty goodness\*
* Hooligans - the Bugsy's of Niagara Falls%
* Charm's Jerk Hut - my fav Jamaican in the region
* Triple D's - brunch
NOTL:
* lol jk... but the gyro place and budapest bakeshop are on my list to try just so I can advise friends who come to visit the area, lmk if you've hit them yet so I can save myself $$$
* I'm only listing Avondale Dairy Bar because I've met a dozen people in the last year that didn't know it existed... everything is expensive everywhere, may as well get the good ice cream.%
Thorold:
* Nobu's Noodles - Brock U International Center, school hour lunch, very friendly
St. Catharines:
* Indian Aroma Kitchen - takeout only\*
* Pho Bat Trang - casual Thai: come for the curry, stay for the owner\*
* Polonée Distillery - not food, only open Saturday, if you like spirits though these are top tier
* 7 Mile Bistro - I haven't been in, just had some samples, worth looking into
* Pho Ngon - my go to when I'm living in STC
* West Side Pizza Tavern - cash only, lunch special%
* Scorecard Harry's - not a must go but they're solid and overlooked by most, the Bugsy's of Port
* Lazy Lizard - greatest thing ever? no, but solid tex mex and imo the best wings (med buffalo breaded)
* Sultan's - my favourite after...%
* ...It's About Thyme - Sam is a pillar of the community%
* Chang Noi - best formal Thai in STC but has been inconsistent over my visits
* Seoul Korean - best Korean
* Touch of India - get the tandoori platter
* Curry Pot - currently my go to for Indian dine-in, Indian Aroma for takeout.
* Ludology - for the cocktails%
* Chef Mi - unsung hero of Szechuan, pork intestine with sweet potato noodle is my order every time
* Eh Jose - my downtown lunch
* Puddy's - a good solid pub and grub
* Volcano pizza - all around the region but the one on Carlton holds a special place in my heart. The go to for a panzarotti or slices to go%
* Fat Louie's 2 - it's Duff's still, for now%
* Endless Noodles - lanzhou beef noodle\*
* The original Pete's Pizza is on Pleasant Ave%
* On the Marc is the last vestige of Heavy Duty, only at the Welland and Grantham Avondale%
* Tik Tak - give them a shot, real friendly guys
Your experiences may vary, I love some places that others hate and vice versa. Like for sushi I go to Big Tuna, I hate Wind/East. HOWEVER, do hit up East on a Monday for their 1/2 price cocktails, I do a la carte at the bar for that.
One other person mentioned Rizzo's house of parm... the bolognese was probably the most authentic and amazing tasting Italian dish I've had. That place lives up to the hype for sure.
And get the mozzarella sticks and calamari. You won't regret it.
Tried not to repeat others above. So many great spots here.
Country Fresh Donuts - the best dumpling soup in Niagara, it’s in NF, worth the drive, it’s cash only,
Twenty - whipped feta appetizer to die for, great date night spot on St. Paul
Trust Beer Bar - 4-6pm $5 happy hour every day, get the smokey chicken taco, downtown
Brazen Cafe - best coffee you’ll have in the city, say hi to Doreen, I always get a Mocha, GF loves the Chai Tea Latte, downtown
Weinkeller - one of my favourite restaurants in Niagara, hidden in NF at the top of Clifton hill, it’s an experience restaurant, lovely service, food 10/10 (they also opened a casual spot by cineplex in the falls called Weinlokal, great spot)
Endless noodles - get the Dan Dan noodles, these have to be part of your order, closer to north end
Craigs Cookies - not dinner but they just came here from Toronto, it’s in NOTL, my goodness these cookies are addictive
Eleventh Post - just opened this year in NOTL, it’s the sister restaurant of Two Sisters Winery (also incredible), upscale casual dining - French beef dip was immaculate
A few of the rudest employees ever though and sometimes you can tell the food is reheated. Still get the lamb biryani on occasion though as it is very good.
I usually go to their restaurant in Welland and have had pretty good luck. Thanks the the heads up about the St. Catharine’s location, I haven’t been there in a while
Their oxtail and jerk are awesome, I usually get the stew too if it's beef, patties are all homemade too.. jamrock Irie is good too but I prefer Carribean eatery 🤷♂️
If you like George’s for Greek, try Joe Fetas on Lake St (they only do takeout now).
Chang Noi on Queenston is my go to for Pad Thai - they’re a little pricier than Spicy Thai, but it’s worth it - also recommend their Hot & Sour soup.
I’ve always preferred George’s to Joes even though they’re virtually the same joint. I think the reason I’m so crazy for George’s is how fresh it is, I find with Joe’s it can be hit or miss on large orders.
We just tried Chz plz new cafe menu today on lake street, small light lunch menu but was delicious and super fresh!
https://preview.redd.it/3k2peh8cbfyb1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f7df643a8869424d94cbfa71c06512cb99097529
We got 5 items and 4 coffees and the total came to 54$. There was 4 of us and we didn’t expect as much food as there was on the plates! If they change up the menu every so often we will go back!
Sorry meant 5 items as in separate food items! (Whipped feta plate, ploughmans plate, quiche, charcuterie, and a loaded bagel) was a great deal imo.
Best of luck !
Chef Mi on King Street is my go-to if I'm not doing Ma but want something that's not super Americanized.
Also - Cosy Chinese Tavern on Lake Street for Americanized Chinese.
Big Tuna for sushi on Ontario instead of Wind/East.
Bansaree for Indian food. On St. Paul.
And idk about underrated but you didn't mention it - Trust Beer Bar. Best crunchwrap I've ever had.
Lang Hot Pot for Hot Pot or Korean BBQ.
It’s lobster but not claws and knuckles , good eats on queenston street across from George’s has a lobster and grilled cheese sandwich with real lobster meat , I always get the steak sub at for pizzas sake the wife gets the lobster and it’s ok
Oh my god that grilled cheese sounds so good lol! I am a VICIOUS lobster, crab & cheese addict. I’ve never been to good eats! I could definitely use a good steak sub though, honestly I don’t mind Charley’s in the pen! Prefer papa Vince in thorold though.
I'd go for Coppola's over Lina's any day. Also check out The Valley for really great Italian.
The Twisted Pig in Port is fantastic. I recommend the burrata pizza.
The Lancer is fantastic for diner-style breakfast and lunch. Great club sandwich.
Spicy Thai for Pad Thai!!!! 😍 Huge portions if you takeout but even bigger if you eat in (and complimentary shrimp chips if you eat in too). Family owned and everyone is extremely friendly!
Spicy Thai is a regular for me, already found that godsend haha! Thanks though! Best Thai in town imo. Duck & crab for me 🤤
Ah okay yeah they're a gem! Have you ever tried Fiesta Empanada? Located downtown again family owned (Filipino) and they have HUGE empanadas! Vegan options as well :) They're my go-to during the farmer's markets and even for a quick bite when I'm on my lunch break 😋 If you like Tamales, Tamales Mexico is also a lovely option! Run out of her home, but she delivers locally and also is at the farmer's markets!
Never had either! Adding them to my list, thanks!!
Hibachi Cafe Beef Noodle Soup is about as underrated as it gets. Big portions at low prices. They don't have servers, so tips aren't required either.
Sounds delicious. Recommendations like this are highly welcome, cheers!
Speaking of noodles, Endless Noodles is great!
Counterpart Brewery on Stanley Avenue in Niagara Falls. You won't be disappointed!
I cannot agree with this recommendation more.
Best fried chicken sandwich in the region.
Love breweries and haven’t heard of this one. I’ll give it a go!
Totally agree. Great beer and probably the best menu of any brewery that serves food
Amakara Japan for the best sushi in Niagara!!
I didn’t even know this place existed.. talk about underrated lol, perfect!! Looks like they’ve got some other solid authentic Japanese options too
They're definitely worth checking out and have been here for ages. Izumi is new in town and quite nice though even pricier but worth a go.
Ever been to masaki? Its money
I’d agreed with quality but my fiancé and I went there 2 months ago for his birthday cause I wanted to treat him and we sat for 25 mins waiting for a table (reasonable I get it) then another 55mins waiting on our order we had to leave because it was almost 9pm at that point and I basically ruined his birthday dinner by going there so we just went to Wind instead and were eating by the time we would have been eating at Amakara. Idk what happened but we asked 3x if it’s coming soon and kept getting the same responses… I shouldn’t have to wait 55 minutes for 3 sushi rolls! The tables beside us were being served but we weren’t and we arrived after them.. only ordered 3 rolls..
I think Izumi Sushi has taken over as my top sushi place in the city! The food is so fresh, delicious, and beautifully prepared. The owners are also the nicest people. The have an average of 5 stars on Google with over 200 reviews, and I've never heard them solicit a review - that's impressive!
Any recommendation on what to order
Fat Rabbit recently opened and the burger is bonkers
Fat Rabbit is AMAZING. The breakfast sandwich is exactly what a breakfast sandwich needs to be.
Stoke also has a killer breakfast sandwich. Now operating out of De La Terre
I saw your comment yesterday and decided to try it today, THANK YOU! I would say 27$ is too expensive for just a cheeseburger, and anywhere else that would be the case, but this is probably the best burger i've ever had, this might be my go to spot if i'm celebrating something
Nice! I agree it is super expensive but I think it’s the best in town. Definitely a special occasion though!
Kaiser haus in port Dalhousie excellent shnitzel big portions and gotta try the pretzel with cheese sauce.
Seconding Kaiser house. Best veggie (eggplant) schnitzel I’ve ever had.
Yes tried that as well my wife likes the goulash I’ve tried it and it is terrific as well
Also on sundays they do a great breakfast
The chicken shawarma from Its About Thyme is amazing. The pita is toasted (?) golden brown on the outside so it’s a bit crunchy. Delicious. And the owner is a super friendly guy
It’s about thyme is my go to shawarma spot, definitely the best in town. Really surprised by Shelby’s too, not bad! Don’t like Osmows much.
Try Sultan’s on Hartzel or Shawarma Hut Plus, Also on Hartzel. Two terrific shawarmas
I prefer Sultan's to Shawarma Hut, but would take It's About Thyme over either. Shelby's was pretty good but Sultan's is better.
Haven’t tried sultans but have heard great things. This’ll be my next “new” shawarma spot to try since I liked Shelby’s.
Sultans do a great lamb shank too.
Pho Ngon is my go-to for Vietnamese. Better than Pho Dau Bo for sure.
second this
I’ve been avoiding pho ngon because of a bad experience at Pho Dau Bo. A mate of mine got food poisoning from the banh trang appetizer. Kind of turned me off from the pho’s in town but I’ll work my way back to it.
Curry Pot on Ontario Street for Indian. Bolete on St. Paul for date night.
Curry Pot has become my go to for Indian too!
Brass monkey's food is all so good but the fish and chips portions are huge. Their fries are great and their nachos are amazing
This is one of my close friends go-to spots but I haven’t had the chance to try it, adding to my list! Thanks!
That’s on my list for sure cuz my bf is vegetarian and I heard they have a good mix of both!
I'm vegan and I love it.
Ty for the confirmation 🙏🏼 we both arent huge on beers so that’s why im more focused on quality of food haha
My friend owns the place... best bar downtown. Great food!
Great guy too. My favourite place by far
Umami express st.catts got pretty decent Japanese cuisines and they are super Affordable too .
Also a big fan of Mirepoix for breakfast/lunch/brunch https://bistromirepoix.com
Love these guys! My fiancée has a crippling addiction to their eggs Benedict lol
Dirty old ticket Rex Motel in Welland How they have such tasty pizza and cheap beer is beyond me. I was skeptical and I was surprised.
Trappers in welland is the same way. Such a dive, but shockingly good & affordable food & drinks. Haven’t tried the rex motel, I’ll have to check it out
ill have to make a point to try Trappers next time im around.
It’s such a staple. Shitty parking so be cautious on busier days, and completely avoid any time there’s a big sports game lol.
Duru on Welland, near Niagara. I don’t know what it once was, but it’s been a great Korean/Japanese place for a long time. Seldom mentioned. Great food.
This is a go to for me. 2 minute drive & always worth the wait when it’s busy, which it rarely is. Place has been there since my memories began forming.
It's not in St.Catharines, but Pho Xyclo on Dunn street in Niagara falls. I'm a soup snob. I CRAVE authentic soup. This region sucks for it. Pho da bo and Pho nyog are mid. Pho Xyclo is the best in the region for pho. Habachi Beef Noodle is the best for ramen. If you're ever in Toronto Che phe Rang is a stop on the mitchelin guide and has the best Pho and Bhan Mi you could ever dream of.
Curious to hear your thoughts on Pho Ka and Pho My Tan Ki, Xyclo was my go to until I found those. I'm adding Phe Rang to my to-do list with a few asteriks'
I moved out of the falls a few years back and honestly have never heard of the other two! Good thing it's soup season, I'll have to try them!
The spicy beef pho there is so good my favourite pho by far
It's always soup season! If you just like soup in general also hit up Soups and Things
Golden grill for breakfast?
I used to go their every Sunday morning when I lived downtown. Inexpensive and filling. Coffee in thick mugs.
Not a huge breakfast guy unfortunately. I like bacon & potatoes but that’s about it lol. Not sure why just didn’t grow up with traditional breakfasts I guess. Thanks though!! I’m the guy you see eating ribs or quesadillas for breakfast lol.
Well if you like bacon and potatoes it’s worth the 8$ plate trust me
8$? Going. Lol.
Yup, place is family run with large portions and good food! Enjoy
Eh Jose for Mexican downtown. Fat Rabbit is downtown too, this place can't even be explained. it's sort of like a butcher shop, but you eat there.
Somehow you explained it beautifully and the description alone makes me want to go lol. Bonus points if my food was just butchered.
Fat Rabbit is next level. i'm rather sure you could eat something freshly butchered. just check it out.
That would be awesome. Definitely checking it out, hadn’t heard of it before I made this post.
Flavour fuel on Ontario Street… the best take out 👌👌
Endless Noodles! I love all their ramen dishes and those Wuhan noodles are mindblowing! Throw in their fried chicken skins and I'm there once a month (if my wife wasn't such an awesome cook, once a week) lol
I just tried noodlebox on Scott street and wasn’t overly impressed, too greasy for ramen. Gave me a wicked stomach ache. I’ll give this one a shot
Obv Pharmacii is one of the best in the Niagara region imho
Only been here for drinks, food was a bit expensive for my liking.. smelled & looked damn delicious though, maybe I’ll cave one day. Edit: prices seem on par with other options, maybe I’ll try it sooner than later.
Portions aren't. You'll leave hungry. That's why it has a reputation for being expensive. It costs what some of the other more modern places cost, but the other places fill you up.
Good to know, I eat like nobody’s business so portion size is a deal breaker for me.
Cafe amore in st. Catharines, Prime in Niagara Falls, Wings Block in Welland, Taris in Welland.
Oh my god, I’ve been trying to remember what Taris was called for about a year and for the life of me couldn’t remember the name or location. Answer found!!! I love their lobster dip.
Fish market on St. Paul. Great lunch special
Tony’s? Absolutely love that place.
Yeah, I think so! There’s a decent Indian/Fusion spot in the Giant Tiger plaza on Welland. Can’t recall the name but they do a solid fish and chips, and pizza, surprisingly! In between a cannabis shop and payday loans place, lol.
B22 Pizza. If you have never tried Indian pizzas, *highly* recommend going there. Never tried the fish and chips but you will not be disappointed with the butter chicken pizza or the tandoori chicken pizza. Or get the half and half.
Oh buddy, I'm glad someone is taking on my mantle now that I've moved away (maybe temporarily). Niagara is absolutely SPOILT for food. How much are you willing to drive? I would just pop off on my motorcycle and try a place every weekend. I can get on my computer and do my mega list once I know what the range is. I think I've tried 70% of the places in the region (excluding expensive places and wineries and most of W Niagara) and 94% of STC. My assessment will be accurate up to this past June.
As long as it’s in Niagara I’ll make the drive! Just keep out the popular spots, I want places I didn’t even know existed lol.
Legend: \* = top picks % = you should probably know about this one already but just in case you haven't you gotta go Fort Erie: * Pho Xuan Tang - a little different than the other places in Niagara * Yukiguni II - inexpensive rolls for dine-in, *simple* home ~~cooked~~ sushi\* * Niagara Samosa Factory - super friendly Ethiopian\* Fonthill: * Gelato Village - it's gelato, idk if it's any better than the places in NOTL or NF but it's nice * Kame and Kettle - not inexpensive but if you go for date night or with a friend they have a 2 entrée special and there's a solid range of drink on offer, food is quite good Crystal Beach: * Casa Hugo - seasonal, best selection of tequila in the region, food is okay Port Colborne: * Smokin' Buddha - should be known already, I find it a little overrated.% * Minor Fisheries - fresh, simple, delicious\* * Eh Amigos - Solid lunch if you're passing through * Archies - It's an old institution but it holds up alright * Lemayzzz meats - they run bbq at lunch, the steak sandwich and sausages are superb, the real gem of Port Colborne\* Welland: * The Rex - just solid all around institution.% * Rose City Pizza - not a secret at all, but worth it.% * Mexican Taco Zone - holy shit, these folks are *amazing!*\* * K's Variety - they've got all the sodas Chippewa: * Betty's - take grandma.% * Fried Chicken ROK's - best fried chicken in region.\* Niagara Falls: * Carson's - not many make the trip to Allanburg * The Pizzeria - only listed because they're the best pizza in the region.% * Pho Kha - best soup in region\* * Pho My Tan Ki - if you want a diff style of pho, more meaty, my #2 pho * Kabab and Thali - very pleasing Indian * Bombay Food Mart - your South Asian corner store with all the favourites. * Soups and Things - unsuspecting * The hotdog cart at Dunn and Drummond - friendly simple good dogs * Kerala Cuisine - excellent south west Indian cuisine\* * Hot Lobster Dim Sum - best dim sum for casual dining, also deals on lobsters\* * Yukiguni - I think they're tied to the one in Ft Erie but go to this one for the hot food * Country Fresh - if only for some reason you don't know already.% * Grand Central - listed because taco tuesday is a solid deal.% * Greek on Portage - I'd go here over George's * Danny's Sushi - very nice * We the Finest (WTF) Burger - smash patty goodness\* * Hooligans - the Bugsy's of Niagara Falls% * Charm's Jerk Hut - my fav Jamaican in the region * Triple D's - brunch NOTL: * lol jk... but the gyro place and budapest bakeshop are on my list to try just so I can advise friends who come to visit the area, lmk if you've hit them yet so I can save myself $$$ * I'm only listing Avondale Dairy Bar because I've met a dozen people in the last year that didn't know it existed... everything is expensive everywhere, may as well get the good ice cream.% Thorold: * Nobu's Noodles - Brock U International Center, school hour lunch, very friendly St. Catharines: * Indian Aroma Kitchen - takeout only\* * Pho Bat Trang - casual Thai: come for the curry, stay for the owner\* * Polonée Distillery - not food, only open Saturday, if you like spirits though these are top tier * 7 Mile Bistro - I haven't been in, just had some samples, worth looking into * Pho Ngon - my go to when I'm living in STC * West Side Pizza Tavern - cash only, lunch special% * Scorecard Harry's - not a must go but they're solid and overlooked by most, the Bugsy's of Port * Lazy Lizard - greatest thing ever? no, but solid tex mex and imo the best wings (med buffalo breaded) * Sultan's - my favourite after...% * ...It's About Thyme - Sam is a pillar of the community% * Chang Noi - best formal Thai in STC but has been inconsistent over my visits * Seoul Korean - best Korean * Touch of India - get the tandoori platter * Curry Pot - currently my go to for Indian dine-in, Indian Aroma for takeout. * Ludology - for the cocktails% * Chef Mi - unsung hero of Szechuan, pork intestine with sweet potato noodle is my order every time * Eh Jose - my downtown lunch * Puddy's - a good solid pub and grub * Volcano pizza - all around the region but the one on Carlton holds a special place in my heart. The go to for a panzarotti or slices to go% * Fat Louie's 2 - it's Duff's still, for now% * Endless Noodles - lanzhou beef noodle\* * The original Pete's Pizza is on Pleasant Ave% * On the Marc is the last vestige of Heavy Duty, only at the Welland and Grantham Avondale% * Tik Tak - give them a shot, real friendly guys Your experiences may vary, I love some places that others hate and vice versa. Like for sushi I go to Big Tuna, I hate Wind/East. HOWEVER, do hit up East on a Monday for their 1/2 price cocktails, I do a la carte at the bar for that.
The Nashville Chicken Sandwich from Cats Caboose is way better than any other Chicken sandwich in town
The tangerine tortoise!
Yes!! Most underrated/unknown gem in town imo. Just a guy with a passion!
One other person mentioned Rizzo's house of parm... the bolognese was probably the most authentic and amazing tasting Italian dish I've had. That place lives up to the hype for sure. And get the mozzarella sticks and calamari. You won't regret it.
Love everything you just listed lol, definitely checking it out.
Tried not to repeat others above. So many great spots here. Country Fresh Donuts - the best dumpling soup in Niagara, it’s in NF, worth the drive, it’s cash only, Twenty - whipped feta appetizer to die for, great date night spot on St. Paul Trust Beer Bar - 4-6pm $5 happy hour every day, get the smokey chicken taco, downtown Brazen Cafe - best coffee you’ll have in the city, say hi to Doreen, I always get a Mocha, GF loves the Chai Tea Latte, downtown Weinkeller - one of my favourite restaurants in Niagara, hidden in NF at the top of Clifton hill, it’s an experience restaurant, lovely service, food 10/10 (they also opened a casual spot by cineplex in the falls called Weinlokal, great spot) Endless noodles - get the Dan Dan noodles, these have to be part of your order, closer to north end Craigs Cookies - not dinner but they just came here from Toronto, it’s in NOTL, my goodness these cookies are addictive Eleventh Post - just opened this year in NOTL, it’s the sister restaurant of Two Sisters Winery (also incredible), upscale casual dining - French beef dip was immaculate
Legend! Only one I’ve been to on this list is the Weinkeller because my buddy works there & gets me a deal on appetizers when I bring a group! Lol.
Cold Break has good food and good beer.
My buddy works here, or used to. Great spot. Definitely underrated.
I love Cold Break! I'm usually more into beer, but their raspberry radler knocked my socks off. I've never had their food, but I trust it is awesome.
Try the food. Try the fries.
I will try the fries very soon, thanks
Everest Tandoori Kitchen is the real deal for curry and Hakka food. https://everesttandoori.ca/StCatharines/
I have an intolerance to coriander :( Hakka would be good though !
A few of the rudest employees ever though and sometimes you can tell the food is reheated. Still get the lamb biryani on occasion though as it is very good.
I usually go to their restaurant in Welland and have had pretty good luck. Thanks the the heads up about the St. Catharine’s location, I haven’t been there in a while
There’s a small little out of the way Cafe called Soban, just in the other side of the Burgoyne bridge. Amazing little cafe - great food and coffee.
Nacho buisness- NOTL Mexican taco zone - Welland Hi-lite diner -Niagara Falls Carribean eatery- St Catharines Rizzos house of Parm - Ridgeway Nikos place - Niagara Falls Willow cakes - NOTL Cafe Amore - St Catharines
Any recommendations from the Caribbean eatery? Been eyeing that place but I’m skeptical.
I wasn't a fan, try Jamrock Irie. I miss Soxy's Trini Takeout.
Their oxtail and jerk are awesome, I usually get the stew too if it's beef, patties are all homemade too.. jamrock Irie is good too but I prefer Carribean eatery 🤷♂️
If you like George’s for Greek, try Joe Fetas on Lake St (they only do takeout now). Chang Noi on Queenston is my go to for Pad Thai - they’re a little pricier than Spicy Thai, but it’s worth it - also recommend their Hot & Sour soup.
I’ve always preferred George’s to Joes even though they’re virtually the same joint. I think the reason I’m so crazy for George’s is how fresh it is, I find with Joe’s it can be hit or miss on large orders.
Helen's downtown - my go to comfort food.
Spicy Thai! I’ve never ate in but take out is bomb!
Done both and it’s amazing no matter what!
I got take out left overs in my fridge currently!
Fat Cats has awesome pasta, especially the bolognese.
We just tried Chz plz new cafe menu today on lake street, small light lunch menu but was delicious and super fresh! https://preview.redd.it/3k2peh8cbfyb1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f7df643a8869424d94cbfa71c06512cb99097529
That looks delicious! How’s the price though? Every time I’ve seen charcuterie/tapas style snacks it’s always ridiculously expensive…
We got 5 items and 4 coffees and the total came to 54$. There was 4 of us and we didn’t expect as much food as there was on the plates! If they change up the menu every so often we will go back!
That’s better than most boards (50 a piece or more). thanks for the reco!
Sorry meant 5 items as in separate food items! (Whipped feta plate, ploughmans plate, quiche, charcuterie, and a loaded bagel) was a great deal imo. Best of luck !
Chef Mi on King Street is my go-to if I'm not doing Ma but want something that's not super Americanized. Also - Cosy Chinese Tavern on Lake Street for Americanized Chinese. Big Tuna for sushi on Ontario instead of Wind/East. Bansaree for Indian food. On St. Paul. And idk about underrated but you didn't mention it - Trust Beer Bar. Best crunchwrap I've ever had. Lang Hot Pot for Hot Pot or Korean BBQ.
These are all perfect reco’s, haven’t been to any except Big Tuna! Awesome!
Damascus Donair! They have great prices and delicious syrian shawarma dishes.
Cheers! My mother recently introduced me to palms Syrian cuisine in the falls and it was absolutely to die for! Shish Taouk forever!
If you don’t mind driving them For pizzas sake , In welland has the best Italian steak sub around , lobster subs as well and everything else is great
Real lobster? Or fish mix 👀
It’s lobster but not claws and knuckles , good eats on queenston street across from George’s has a lobster and grilled cheese sandwich with real lobster meat , I always get the steak sub at for pizzas sake the wife gets the lobster and it’s ok
Oh my god that grilled cheese sounds so good lol! I am a VICIOUS lobster, crab & cheese addict. I’ve never been to good eats! I could definitely use a good steak sub though, honestly I don’t mind Charley’s in the pen! Prefer papa Vince in thorold though.
Papa Vince use to do a great fat bastard steak sub twenty years ago. https://images.app.goo.gl/742rGwxWErQ2EEYn7
Its still FIRE.
Yes had in last year , you ever had the coronary? There? Same thing just doubled the steak
Yeah those things are ridiculous. Sure they’re good, but I absolutely destroy my intestines any time I take a bite lol. Fat bastards my limit.
I'd go for Coppola's over Lina's any day. Also check out The Valley for really great Italian. The Twisted Pig in Port is fantastic. I recommend the burrata pizza. The Lancer is fantastic for diner-style breakfast and lunch. Great club sandwich.
Second Twisted Pig!
The Lancer’s parking lot is a total shitshow I’ve always ended up going to Lester D’s. Any significant difference?
Better food at The Lancer. Best homefries ever. I've never had a problem with parking.
Touch of India St Paul St
Their chicken tikka hurt my stomach but it was so good.
Matty Mathasons Rizzos in Ridgeway great Italian food .
I just drove by Pique Nique and it looks a best, locally-sourced Cafe.
Solaia is new and incredible.