Are there wineries with farm-to-table dining?
Updated List of Prince Edward County Wineries With Farm-To-Table Dining
- Waupoos Estates Winery
- Norman Hardie Winery & Vineyard
- Lighthall Vineyards
- Huff Estates Winery
- Karlo Estates
- The Grange of Prince Edward
- Closson Chase Vineyards
- Harwood Estate Vineyards
Top Three Food Experiences in the County
- Waupoos Estates Winery for waterfront dining and seasonal menus.
- Norman Hardie Winery for vineyard-side wood-fired pizza.
- Lighthall Vineyards for estate-made sheep’s milk cheese paired with local wines.
See my list of the 48 essential restaurants you need to try while in PEC.
Prince Edward County has become one of Ontario’s premier culinary destinations, and it isn’t just because of the wine. Many County wineries have embraced the farm-to-table movement, creating dining experiences that showcase locally grown produce, artisanal ingredients, and estate wines served just steps from the vineyards where they’re produced.
As a long-time visitor to Prince Edward County wineries, I’ve found that some of the most memorable meals aren’t found in traditional restaurants. They’re enjoyed on vineyard patios, overlooking rows of vines, with a glass of local wine in hand and a plate of food sourced from nearby farms. That’s about as “County” as it gets.
Here are some of the best Prince Edward County wineries offering farm-to-table dining experiences and what you can expect when you visit.
1. Waupoos Estates Winery
What They Offer
Waupoos Estates is home to one of the County’s most popular winery restaurants. Located on the shores of Prince Edward Bay, the restaurant serves seasonal menus featuring local produce, meats, and ingredients whenever possible. Fresh salads, locally sourced proteins, wood-fired specialties, and seasonal desserts are common highlights.
Why Visit
The waterfront setting makes this one of the most scenic winery dining experiences in Prince Edward County. Pair a glass of County Chardonnay or Pinot Gris with lunch overlooking the water and you’ll quickly understand why reservations fill up during summer.
Insider Tip: Request a patio seat on a sunny afternoon for one of the most picturesque dining views in the region.
2. The Grange of Prince Edward
What They Offer
The Grange regularly features seasonal food offerings that complement their estate-grown wines. Their culinary experiences highlight local ingredients and often include thoughtfully crafted sharing plates, artisan foods, and seasonal specials sourced from nearby farms.
Why Visit
The restored historic barn, vineyard views, and relaxed atmosphere create a classic Prince Edward County experience.
Must Try Pairing: Estate Pinot Noir paired with local cheeses and charcuterie.
3. Karlo Estates
What They Offer
Known as the world’s first certified vegan winery, Karlo Estates offers food experiences that emphasize local ingredients, cheese boards, charcuterie selections, and seasonal culinary events. Their famous speakeasy lounge frequently hosts special food-and-wine experiences.
Why Visit
The beautifully restored 1805 barn creates a unique atmosphere unlike any other winery in the County.
Fun Fact: Even committed meat lovers often leave impressed by Karlo’s creative local-food approach.
4. Harwood Estate Vineyards
What They Offer
Harwood Estate combines a winery, brewery, and bistro experience. Visitors can enjoy menus featuring locally sourced ingredients, casual farm-to-table fare, and seasonal menu items designed to pair with estate wines and craft beer.
Why Visit
The winery’s eco-conscious approach and spacious outdoor setting make it an excellent destination for leisurely lunches.
Perfect For: Groups with mixed tastes since guests can enjoy both wine and craft beer pairings.
5. Huff Estates Winery
What They Offer
Huff Estates frequently offers elevated wine-country dining experiences featuring local ingredients and artisan food pairings. Guests can enjoy cheese boards, charcuterie, and seasonal culinary offerings paired with the winery’s award-winning wines. ]
Why Visit
The property combines wine, art, and dining in one location thanks to its on-site gallery and accommodations.
Don’t Miss: Their sparkling wines paired with locally sourced appetizers.
6. Closson Chase Vineyards
What They Offer
While best known for its iconic purple barn and outstanding Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Closson Chase occasionally features curated food experiences, local artisan products, and seasonal pairings showcasing County ingredients.
Why Visit
The intimate atmosphere and premium wines make this a favourite stop among serious wine enthusiasts.
Best Pairing: County Chardonnay with local Ontario cheeses.
7. Lighthall Vineyards
What They Offer
Lighthall offers one of the most authentic farm-to-table experiences in Prince Edward County because they produce artisanal sheep’s milk cheese on-site. Visitors can enjoy wine and cheese pairings that truly showcase the “farm-to-glass” concept.
Why Visit
Very few wineries in Canada produce both wine and cheese on the same property.
Local Favorite: Pair their sparkling wine with estate-made sheep’s milk cheese.
What Makes Farm-To-Table Dining Special in Prince Edward County?
Prince Edward County’s culinary scene thrives because farmers, winemakers, chefs, and food producers work closely together. The result is menus that change with the seasons and feature ingredients harvested just kilometres from your table.
Depending on the time of year, you may find:
- Fresh heirloom tomatoes
- Local asparagus
- County-grown vegetables
- Ontario cheeses
- Free-range meats
- Fresh herbs
- Local honey
- Seasonal berries and fruit
The menus evolve throughout the growing season, ensuring every visit feels slightly different.
Planning Your Winery Dining Tour
If you’re looking for the ultimate farm-to-table winery day, consider this route:
- Lunch at Waupoos Estates Winery
- Cheese pairing at Lighthall Vineyards
- Afternoon tasting at Closson Chase
- Charcuterie and wine at Karlo Estates
- Finish with sunset drinks at The Grange
Not only will you experience some of the County’s finest wines, but you’ll also discover why Prince Edward County has earned its reputation as one of Ontario’s premier food and wine destinations.
Final Thoughts
Prince Edward County wineries offer far more than tastings. Many have transformed into complete culinary destinations where locally grown food and handcrafted wines take center stage. Whether you’re enjoying a waterfront lunch at Waupoos Estates, sampling estate-made cheese at Lighthall, or sharing a charcuterie board at Karlo Estates, you’ll be experiencing the very best of the County’s farm-to-table culture.
And let’s be honest: calories consumed at a winery don’t count. They’re simply part of the tasting experience.
