Niagara on the Lake Restaurants
on a Budget
Niagara on the Lake restaurants that serve food at affordable prices can be hard to find. Here are a few where you can eat well for less. Niagara on the Lake restaurants are known for “fine dining” and the high prices that go with it. However, there’s no need to drop $50 or more per person on lunch every time you go to town. That might be ok for a special occasion, but if you’re like me, on a regular day trip you’re probably looking for something that costs a lot less, say under $20 for lunch for one person.
After all, I’d rather save my money for a show at the Shaw Festival, or a few bottles of wine from some nearby Niagara wineries. Wouldn’t you? If so, here are some restaurants right on Queen Street (the main shopping street in Niagara on the Lake) that serve lunch at a reasonable price. Restaurants I’ve tried and can personally recommend: Epicurean
84 Queen Street
This is my “usual” lunch place when I’m in town for an afternoon of shopping or the Shaw. They use all fresh ingredients, mostly local, and their gourmet sandwiches and salads are satisfying and delicious. They’re a little pricier than a fast food sub place but the superior quality of food is worth it.
They have inside seating (cheerful bright decor) and a great outdoor patio under the trees in the backyard. NOTE: In the evening they turn into a fancy bistro with fancy prices to match. I haven’t tried their evening meals although I suspect that they’d be good as well. But be warned: it’s a different menu and prices are higher in the evening.
Average price: $15 for sandwich, salad and coffee/tea at lunchThe Irish Tea Room
75 Queen Street
This is quite a find. I didn’t even know it was there until a friend who’s a tour guide and in town a lot pointed it out. It’s right in the back of a shop selling Irish clothing, gifts, books, music, etc. They serve Irish favourites like Boxty pancakes, Shepherd’s pie, Guinness Steak Pie, scones, Barm Brack, soups, salads, quiches.
Their “Whiskey Cake” is to die for! You can eat inside or on the outdoor patio. They do take-out too.
Average price per person: $10-15 for hot dish and coffee/tea at lunch
More Niagara on the Lake restaurants on a budget. I haven’t tried these but they’ve been around for a while and always seem to be full of customers. Shaw Café and Wine Bar
92 Queen Street
French-café style food. Quiche, sandwiches are about $17 so with coffee and tax you’re probably looking at more like $25. This is the place with the patio right on Queen Street surrounded by gorgeous baskets of flowers. See and be seen. Stagecoach Family Restaurant
45 Queen Street
What it says: “family restaurant”. Basic food for adults and kids. Closures NOTE: If you haven’t been to Niagara on the Lake for a while, these restaurants have moved or closed: The Buttery – moved to Niagara Falls
Old Towne Restaurant – closed
Estia - closed You may enjoy Niagara on the Lake Ontario Niagara Ice Wine Festival Niagara Region
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