Six must-visit winery restaurants near Windsor

Bistro 42 at North 42 Degrees Estate Winery

Enjoy a memorable visit to Bistro 42, the restaurant at North 42 Degrees Estate Winery.

Bistro 42 is a FeastOn member and is Ocean Wise certified, the stamp of approval for food and seafood that are sourced ethically. In addition to the family-owned winery, there’s a generously sized garden and greenhouse. Vegetables and herbs harvested are featured seasonally on the menu.

Enjoy food made from scratch. Taste the difference in the homemade bread, garlic sauce and tomato vinaigrette, for example. Mouth-watering dishes include Lobster Mac n Cheese, featuring the freshest lobster and the finest cheese or delectable quiche filled with delicious fresh vegetables.

The main dining area features stone and wood with a large fireplace and panoramic views of the vineyard outside and the lavender farm.

Not only can you visit the lavender farm and retail shop when it’s in season, but you might be treated to lavender products on the menu too, like the lavender shortbread cookies, a local favourite.

Location: 130 County Road 50 East, Colchester

Sunday Brunch at Colchester Ridge Estate Winery

Just steps away from North 42 Degrees, Colchester Ridge Estate Winery & Gallery (also known as CREW) is another beautiful spot to enjoy a great meal.

Experience the pairing of cheeseboards and charcuterie with afternoon wine tastings. Or book the Sunday brunch from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and enjoy brunch mainstays like eggs benedict and steak and eggs, as well as inventive recipes like Duck Pastrami Hash or Breakfast Enchilada.

Don’t miss out on a house wine or a savoury CREW Caesar or Mimosa either. Reservations are recommended. CREW offers full menu options that include vegetarian and gluten-free options too that showcase fresh produce from local growers.

Location: 108 County Road 50 East, Harrow

Oxley Estate Winery Restaurant

Whether you visit for a lunch date during the week or a weekend dinner, this small, family-owned winery will charm you with its rustic ambience and amazing food and wine.

As part of the farm-to-plate dining experience, most of the seasonal menu, like the fresh perch, is purchased locally.

Verjus is an acidic ingredient commonly found in French, Persian and Syrian cuisine, and is used in the Oxley Estate Winery kitchen. This acidic juice from unripe green grapes enhances the flavours of sauces, vinaigrette and even desserts. If you are curious how it can be infused in meals, check out Oxley’s seasonal menu. Many of the menu selections include verjus. The acidity in verjus does not overwhelm but rather compliments the taste of wine enjoyed with your meal. You can also purchase a bottle of verjus at the Oxlely retail store.

Location: 533 County Road 50 East, Harrow

Mangia at Paglione Estate Winery

Enjoy the culinary bliss of pure homemade Italian comfort food at Paglione Estate Winery, where the décor and ambience celebrate the Paglione heritage from Capracotta, Italy.

The winery specializes in red wine which pairs well with menu items. Traditional techniques are used in the small-batch wine production.

Homemade pizza baked in the wood-fired oven is a popular attraction. Popular menu items include tiramisu, torte, pasta, Mediterranean bowls with an assortment of fresh vegetables and lemon vinaigrette. Don’t miss the espresso and cappuccino or the gelato, another very popular signature item which is made from scratch.

Location: 724 County Road 50 East, Harrow

Viewpointe Estate Winery

The mission of this family-operated winery is to showcase Essex County’s fine wine and culinary diversity.

Culinary creations pair well with white and red wine produced onsite. Choose from salads, sandwiches and homemade pizzas. A popular wine is Auxerrois, a white wine that pairs well with fish and some appetizers.

Enjoy scenic vineyard views from the patio, which is open May to October. There’s also seating in the indoor tasting area.

Location: 151 County Road 50 East, Harrow

The Vines Restaurant at Cooper’s Hawk Vineyard

Named after the raptors that nest on the property, Cooper’s Hawk Vineyard also features The Vines Restaurant, a spacious dining area with great outdoor views.

The season menu serves lunches, sharables and dinner. After your meal, take a walk around the property and look for various wildlife species that also call this natural setting home.

Location: 1425 Iler Road, Harrow