Some restaurant visits are enjoyable. Others leave you talking about the food long after you’ve paid the bill and headed home. Our recent visit to Bloomfield Public House in the heart of Bloomfield, Ontario was definitely the latter.
From the moment we settled in, we knew we were in for a treat. Our server was just awesome, friendly, joking and very attentive. The menu offered plenty of tempting choices, but we decided to lean into the coastal-inspired offerings and sample a variety of dishes that showcased both creativity and fresh ingredients.
Seafood Menus
Here’s a look at the first menu that was on the wall showing the seafood options.
Note: The menu changes all the time, so what you see this week may be different next week.
They encourage you to snap a picture of the menu and take your time.
If you have any questions, your server is very familiar with each item.
We thought this was cool because our server walked us through the ingredients and the taste profiles.
Not your typical dining experience, and we loved it!
We kicked things off with the Oyster Mignonette, a tasting experience that felt like a mini tour of Eastern Canada.
On the platter were Lucky Lime oysters from Prince Edward Island, Malpeque oysters from Quebec, and Chebooktook oysters from New Brunswick.
Each variety brought its own distinct character to the table, proving that not all oysters are created equal. Some were briny, some were sweet, and all were delicious. If oysters could talk, these three would probably have spent the evening arguing about which province produces the best shellfish.
Not content to stop there, we added the Clams with Chilli and Lime and the Dill Pickle Bay Scallops. The clams delivered a perfect balance of heat and citrus, while the scallops provided a playful twist with their dill pickle seasoning.
One of the biggest surprises of the evening was the Sea Urchin and Prince Edward County Corn with Miso. This dish was a standout from the first bite. The sweet local corn paired beautifully with the rich sea urchin, while the miso tied everything together with layers of savory depth.
It sounds unexpected on paper, but somehow it works brilliantly. It’s the kind of dish that makes you stop mid-bite and say, “Why don’t more places do this?”
It was innovative without being complicated and showcased exactly why local ingredients can shine when they’re in the right hands.
Main Menu
Alrighty… for the main menu, they blended the appetizers near the top, the mains in the center, and the desserts at the bottom.
Lots of options depending on your tastes.
This is a Farm-to-Table experience which is popular here in Prince Edward County.
For our mains, we chose two very different dishes, both of which delivered in a big way. Check them out.
The Steak Frites was everything you want from a classic favourite.
The steak was cooked beautifully, and it was bursting with flavours.
The fries were crisp and satisfying, and every bite reminded us why some dishes become timeless staples.
Across the table, the Tagliolini in Crab Cream Sauce was equally impressive. Rich, silky, and packed with crab flavour, it struck a perfect balance between indulgence and elegance. It was the type of pasta dish that makes you seriously consider licking the plate when nobody’s looking.
What impressed us most throughout the meal was the consistency. Every dish that arrived at the table was thoughtfully prepared and absolutely bursting with flavour.
The kitchen clearly understands how to let quality ingredients take centre stage while adding just enough creativity to keep things exciting.
Exploring the Wine List at Bloomfield Public House
One of the things we appreciated most during our visit to Bloomfield Public House was the thoughtfully curated wine list. While the food certainly commands attention, the wine program deserves recognition for showcasing both the incredible wines being produced close to home and a selection of interesting bottles from some of the world’s most celebrated wine regions.
For visitors looking to experience the best of Ontario wine country, the menu features several standout local selections. We were delighted to see Lighthall Vineyards Progression, a sparkling wine that perfectly reflects Prince Edward County’s growing reputation for premium bubbles. Crisp, refreshing, and beautifully balanced, it’s an excellent way to start an evening.
Chardonnay lovers are particularly well served. The list includes the highly regarded Closson Chase Chardonnay, one of the benchmark Chardonnays of Prince Edward County, alongside Three Dog Winery Chardonnay, another excellent local expression of this versatile grape. Both showcase the bright acidity and minerality that have become hallmarks of County-grown Chardonnay.
For those who prefer aromatic whites, Tawse Winery’s Lincoln Lakeshore Riesling offers vibrant citrus, stone fruit, and refreshing acidity that pairs beautifully with many of the seafood dishes on the menu, especially the oysters and clams. The wine list also features Pinot Gris, providing another approachable and food-friendly option for guests seeking something crisp and refreshing.
What makes the wine selection particularly appealing is that it doesn’t stop at local offerings. While Bloomfield Public House proudly celebrates Ontario wine country, the list also ventures across the Atlantic with carefully chosen wines from France, Italy, and Spain. These international selections provide guests with the opportunity to explore classic Old World styles alongside local favourites.
French wines bring elegance and tradition, often showcasing the terroir-driven character that made the country’s wine regions famous. Italian wines offer everything from bright, food-friendly whites to bold reds that pair beautifully with heartier dishes like the Steak Frites. Spanish wines add another layer of diversity, often delivering exceptional value and rich flavour profiles that complement the restaurant’s globally inspired cuisine.
This balance between local and international wines creates a wine list that feels both approachable and adventurous. Guests can choose to stay close to home by exploring Prince Edward County and Niagara producers or travel the wine world without ever leaving their table.
For our meal, the local wines felt like a natural fit. After all, when you’re enjoying Prince Edward County corn, fresh seafood, and expertly prepared dishes in the heart of Bloomfield, pairing them with a glass of Ontario wine simply completes the experience.
Bloomfield Public House has managed to create a wine program that reflects the same philosophy as its kitchen: celebrate exceptional local ingredients while remaining open to inspiration from around the world. It’s a combination that makes every visit a little more memorable, and every glass a little more interesting.
Local Food and Wine Pairing Options
Oyster Mignonette (Lucky Lime, Malpeque & Chebooktook Oysters)
Wine Pairing: Prince Edward County Chardonnay (unoaked) or PEC Riesling
The bright acidity and citrus notes of a crisp Riesling enhance the oysters’ natural brininess, while an unoaked Chardonnay complements their creamy texture without overpowering the delicate flavours.
County Options:
- Closson Chase “The Brock” Chardonnay
- Huff Estates Riesling
- Trail Estate Riesling
Clams with Chilli and Lime
Wine Pairing: Sauvignon Blanc
The zesty lime and touch of heat call for a wine with vibrant citrus character and refreshing acidity.
County Options:
- Sandbanks Estate Sauvignon Blanc
- Rosehall Run Sauvignon Blanc
Dill Pickle Bay Scallops
Wine Pairing: Dry Rosé or Grüner Veltliner
The herbaceous dill and bright acidity of the pickle flavours pair beautifully with a dry rosé. Grüner Veltliner also shines with dishes featuring herbs and tangy notes.
Sea Urchin & Prince Edward County Corn with Miso
Wine Pairing: Chardonnay (lightly oaked) or Sparkling Wine
This dish sounds rich, umami-packed, and slightly sweet from the corn. A lightly oaked Chardonnay mirrors those creamy textures, while a traditional-method sparkling wine brings balance and freshness.
County Options:
- Karlo Estates Chardonnay
- Hinterland Traditional Method Blanc de Blancs
Steak Frites
Wine Pairing: Cabernet Franc
A County Cabernet Franc delivers enough structure for the steak while maintaining elegance. The wine’s red fruit and subtle pepper notes work exceptionally well with grilled beef.
County Options:
- Closson Chase Cabernet Franc
- Broken Stone Cabernet Franc
- Sugarbush Vineyards Cabernet Franc
Tagliolini in Crab Cream Sauce
Wine Pairing: Chardonnay
A rich crab cream sauce practically begs for Chardonnay. The wine’s body matches the cream sauce while its acidity keeps the dish from feeling heavy.
County Options:
- Exultet Chardonnay
- Norman Hardie Chardonnay
- Rosehall Run Chardonnay
A Perfect County Dining Experience
If you’re looking to recreate the ultimate Prince Edward County experience, start with a glass of Riesling alongside the oysters, move to Chardonnay for the sea urchin and crab pasta, and finish with a Cabernet Franc paired with the Steak Frites. It’s a progression that showcases both the Bloomfield Public House menu and some of the County’s finest wines.
As for us, we may have started with the oysters, but by the time the Tagliolini and Steak Frites arrived, we were seriously considering whether a second dinner was socially acceptable. Fortunately, exceptional food has a way of making questionable decisions seem completely reasonable.
Bloomfield Public House has earned a reputation as one of Prince Edward County’s favourite dining destinations, and after our visit, it’s easy to understand why. If you’re a seafood lover like me, a fan of classic comfort food, or simply looking for a memorable meal in a welcoming atmosphere, this spot deserves a place on your must-visit list.
We’ll just say this: come hungry. And if you’re planning to share the oysters, be prepared to defend your favourites. Some friendly table negotiations may be required.
