As someone who has called Prince Edward County home for many years, I’ve watched our craft beer scene grow from a handful of passionate brewers into one of Ontario’s premier beer destinations. These days, you don’t have to choose between great beer and great food. Many County breweries have stepped up their culinary game, transforming a quick pint into a full afternoon adventure.
If you’re planning a brewery tour and wondering where you can enjoy something more substantial than a bowl of peanuts, here’s my insider guide to the Prince Edward County breweries that offer food, what you can expect, and which ones are worth building your day around.
1. 555 Brewing Co. (Picton)
When visitors ask me where to start, 555 Brewing Co. is almost always on the list. Located right on Picton’s Main Street, it’s one of the County’s most popular brewpubs and combines excellent craft beer with a full restaurant menu.
The star of the show here is the wood-fired pizza. The crust achieves that perfect balance between crispy and chewy, which is exactly what you need after a morning spent wandering downtown shops or exploring the waterfront.
What to Expect:
- Wood-fired pizzas
- Wraps
- Share plates
- Vegetarian options
- Large outdoor patio
One of my favourite things about 555 is sitting on the patio with a flight of beer and watching downtown Picton unfold around you. It’s essentially dinner and entertainment rolled into one.
2. Parsons Brewing Company (Picton)
If breweries had personality types, Parsons Brewing Company would be the friendly farm kid who invites everyone over for a backyard barbecue.
Set on a beautiful rural property, Parsons has become one of the County’s top destinations for both beer and food. Visitors routinely praise the brewery and its food.
What to Expect:
- Wood-fired pizzas
- Fried chicken
- Burgers
- Tacos
- Seasonal specialties
- Family-friendly outdoor spaces
This is the kind of place where one beer mysteriously turns into three because nobody wants to leave. The atmosphere is relaxed, the food is satisfying, and there’s plenty of room to spread out.
3. Midtown Brewing Company (Wellington)
Located in Wellington, Midtown Brewing Company occupies a converted industrial building that perfectly captures the laid-back County vibe. It’s frequently recommended for both its beer and hearty pub-style menu.
What to Expect:
- Smash burgers
- Fish and chips
- Chicken sandwiches
- Salads
- Appetizers
- Rotating specials
If your brewery philosophy is “beer is great, but I’m really here for a giant burger,” Midtown may become your favourite stop.
Their menu leans toward elevated comfort food, making it a reliable lunch or dinner destination.
4. Prince Eddy’s Brewing Co. (Picton)
Nestled near the Millennium Trail, Prince Eddy’s Brewing Co. has built a loyal following among locals and visitors alike. Guests regularly mention the combination of good beer and good food as a major draw.
What to Expect:
- Burgers
- Sandwiches
- Tacos
- Shareables
- Seasonal kitchen features
What I particularly enjoy is the casual atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to relax after a bike ride or a day of winery hopping.
5. Gillingham Brewing Company (Hillier)
If atmosphere earned medals, Gillingham Brewing Company would need a larger trophy case.
Situated in Hillier, this brewery has one of the most beautiful beer gardens in Prince Edward County. Rather than a traditional pub menu, Gillingham often partners with local culinary producers and food vendors to create a unique experience. The brewery is known for curated small plates and special food events.
What to Expect:
- Gourmet small plates
- Charcuterie
- Sandwiches
- Oyster events
- Specialty food pop-ups
- Seasonal partnerships
The newer Picton Outpost location also offers lunch and dinner service alongside their award-winning beers.
My recommendation? Find a picnic table, order a flight, and pretend you have no responsibilities for the next two hours.
My Local Insider Scoop
Gillingham Brewery has a restaurant called “The Outpost,” and it’s located on the main street of Picton across the street from 555 Brewing. It’s small, and you may miss it.
What Does The Outpost Offer?
- Open for lunch and dinner
- Full craft beer selection from Gillingham
- Food menu featuring local culinary offerings
- Easier access if you’re staying in Picton and don’t want to drive to Hillier
As a local, I’d say The Outpost has filled a gap in downtown Picton’s craft beer scene.
Previously, if you wanted Gillingham’s award-winning beers, you had to head out to Hillier.
Now you can enjoy them on Main Street while exploring shops, restaurants, and the Picton harbour.
6. Matron Fine Beer (Bloomfield)
Matron Fine Beer may be best known for its exceptional beer, but food lovers shouldn’t overlook it. Visitors have praised the brewery’s burger offerings and simple but well-executed menu items.
What to Expect:
- Smash burgers
- Fries
- Casual fare
- Seasonal menu offerings
The brewery’s rural setting among flower fields creates a uniquely County experience that feels far removed from everyday life.
7. Slake Brewing (Picton Area)
An honourable mention, although a food menu is not their main attraction. Many locals consider Slake Brewing to have the best view in Prince Edward County. Built into a limestone hillside, the brewery offers stunning panoramic scenery.
What to Expect:
- Rotating food trucks
- Snack offerings
- Special event food vendors
- Incredible views
While the food program tends to rotate, the scenery remains consistently spectacular.
I’ve often joked that the sunset does half the work of attracting customers.
So Which Brewery Has the Best Food?
After years of “research” (a term my wife may challenge after seeing the number of brewery receipts), here’s how I’d rank them:
- Best Overall Food Experience: Parsons Brewing Company
- Best Wood Fire Pizza: 555 Brewing Co.
- Best Pub Fare: Midtown Brewing Company
- Best Atmosphere: Gillingham Brewing Company
- Best View: Slake Brewing
My Final Sip
One of the reasons Prince Edward County’s brewery scene has become so popular is that it’s no longer just about the beer. Today’s breweries are creating complete experiences where excellent food, welcoming spaces, entertainment, and locally crafted beverages come together.
Whether you’re craving a wood-fired pizza in downtown Picton, a burger in Wellington, gourmet small plates in Hillier, or a pint overlooking rolling County farmland, there’s a brewery table waiting for you.
Just remember: if you plan to visit more than one brewery in a day, bring a designated driver. The beer is good, the food is great, and the temptation to stay “for just one more pint” is very real.
