Kitchener-Waterloo is a thriving region with a diverse food scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. From upscale fine dining establishments to casual and cozy cafes, there is a restaurant for every occasion and mood. With a range of cultural influences, Kitchener-Waterloo’s cuisine is eclectic and exciting, and visitors can expect to find innovative dishes made with fresh and locally-sourced ingredients.
- The Berlin: Located in downtown Kitchener, The Berlin is a contemporary restaurant that serves German-inspired cuisine with a modern twist. The menu changes regularly to reflect the seasonally available produce, and the chefs work closely with local farmers and producers to ensure that the ingredients are of the highest quality. Some of the standout dishes include the crispy pork belly with braised cabbage and the schnitzel with spaetzle.
- Langdon Hall: Langdon Hall is a luxurious country house hotel located in Cambridge, just a short drive from Kitchener-Waterloo. The restaurant has received numerous awards and accolades for its exceptional cuisine, which is inspired by the region’s bounty of fresh ingredients. The menu is a celebration of Canadian cuisine, with dishes like roasted venison loin and butter-poached lobster.
- Marbles: For a casual and laid-back dining experience, head to Marbles in uptown Waterloo. This cozy restaurant serves up delicious and inventive pizzas, sandwiches, and salads, all made with fresh and locally-sourced ingredients. The pizzas are a particular standout, with toppings like spicy sausage, roasted garlic, and goat cheese.
- Bhima’s Warung: Bhima’s Warung is a family-run restaurant in Kitchener that serves Indonesian cuisine. The menu is a mix of classic and modern dishes, all made with authentic spices and flavors. Some of the standout dishes include the beef rendang and the nasi goreng, a fried rice dish with chicken, shrimp, and vegetables.
- King Street Trio: Located in the heart of Waterloo, King Street Trio is a sleek and sophisticated restaurant that serves contemporary Canadian cuisine. The menu is focused on local and seasonal ingredients, and the chefs create innovative dishes that are both delicious and visually stunning. Some of the standout dishes include the seared scallops with bacon jam and the roasted pork belly with braised red cabbage.
- Ethel’s Lounge: Ethel’s Lounge is a cozy and quirky bar and restaurant in Waterloo that serves up delicious comfort food with a twist. The menu is focused on classic dishes like burgers and mac and cheese, but with unexpected ingredients and flavor combinations. The drinks menu is equally impressive, with a range of creative cocktails and local beers on tap.
- Taco Farm: Taco Farm is a casual and laid-back restaurant in uptown Waterloo that specializes in tacos made with fresh and locally-sourced ingredients. The menu is a mix of classic and inventive tacos, with fillings like chorizo sausage, avocado, and spicy chicken. The restaurant also has a range of craft beers and cocktails to complement the tacos.
- Nick and Nat’s Uptown 21: Nick and Nat’s Uptown 21 is a cozy and welcoming restaurant in Waterloo that serves up delicious farm-to-table cuisine. The menu changes regularly to reflect the seasonally available ingredients, but always features classic dishes like roast chicken and homemade pasta. The restaurant also has an impressive wine list, with a range of local and international wines to choose from.
- Seven Shores Urban Market & Cafe: Seven Shores Urban Market & Cafe is a popular spot in downtown Kitchener that serves up delicious and healthy food made with fresh and organic ingredients. The menu features a range of vegetarian and vegan options, as well as classic dishes like sandwiches and soups.