Exploring Burlington’s Neighbourhoods Through Food: Downtown Burlington
Calling all foodies: downtown Burlington is your ultimate culinary playground! Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience, a family friendly affair, or a lively patio with waterfront vibes, downtown Burlington is a vibrant, diverse restaurant scene that tickles every taste bud. Ready to dig in? Here are a few spots we’re loving right now!
400 Brant Kitchen & Bar, 400 Brant St
Historic charm meets upscale dining at 400 Brant. This historic spot was once home to The Queen’s Head Pub and has been lovingly restored by a local couple – chef Stewart Schmidt and Sarah Millar. In addition to the renovated dining room and bar, 400 Brant also features private event rooms, including one with state-of-the-art golf simulators.
The Carriage House, 2101 Old Lakeshore Rd
Immerse yourself in history while savouring world-class cuisine at Burlington’s top fine-dining destination. Housed in a beautifully restored 1859 heritage building that once served as Lt-Col. John Crysler’s carriage shop, The Carriage House is an award winning establishment, having received a AAA/CAA Four Diamond Award and the Top 100 Open Table. Savor the finest in international cuisine including USDA Mesquite-grilled steaks, Duo of Muscovy Duck, and Fresh Dover Sole flown in from Brittany, France. Perfect for special occasions, private events, or simply indulging in the best, The Carriage House truly raises the bar for fine dining.
Martini House, 437 Elizabeth St
Shake up your dining experience at Martini House, where chef and co-owner Jayke Carter, a Chopped Canada 2014 champion, works his magic. Housed in a historic 1812 building in the centre of Burlington’s downtown restaurant district, the menu strikes the perfect balance of elegant fine dining and comforting familiarity from hearty pasta and wood-fired pizza to innovative protein entrées, decadent desserts, and of course, an impressive selection of martinis to pair with every dish.
Prime Steakhouse Raw & Bar, 390 Brant St
Winner of Open Table’s 2024 Diners’ Choice Award, this modern steakhouse with Asian-inspired flair delivers a culinary adventure. Dive into the freshest oysters, crab, and crudo at the raw bar, or savour perfectly cooked steaks sourced from around the globe. Pair with a glass from their expertly curated wine list.
Nisi Greek Taverna, 1455 Lakeshore Rd.
A new gem at Locust and Lakeshore, Nisi brings the vibrant flavours of Greece to Burlington. This charming spot serves up authentic Greek cuisine with a local twist, featuring fresh seafood, creative cocktails, and irresistible desserts. The menu is a celebration of Greek classics—think saganaki, spanakopita, souvlaki, and moussaka, plus vegetarian and gluten-free options. Whether you’re dining in, planning a private event, or grabbing takeout, Nisi will transport you straight to the Mediterranean. Opa!
Downtown Burlington offers a vibrant mix of culinary experiences, with each restaurant reflecting the rich diversity and creativity of our local food scene. From casual bites to more refined dining, this neighbourhood is a true showcase of what makes Burlington a standout culinary destination.
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