Anyone who loves a road trip knows that one of the essentials for the perfect road trip is coffee! On a recent road trip exploring Oxford County in Ontario, I discovered the best coffee shops (that aren’t Tim Horton’s), brew pubs and eateries! I can’t wait for you to check out the best places to eat and drink in Oxford County!
Coffee Shops, Brew Pubs, and Restaurants, You Have To Visit When In Oxford County
Oxford County is a hidden gem for foodies and coffee lovers, with many cozy restaurants, brew pubs, and coffee shops dotted around the area. Whether you’re taking a leisurely drive, looking for a remote place to work, or just hanging out with friends, Oxford County boasts some of the best places to eat and drink to be found anywhere in Ontario. In this article I will share my favourite places to eat and drink that I found when touring around Oxford County.
In order to sample the coffee, beer, and food at each of these cafes, brewpubs, and restaurants, you will need to spend a night or two in Oxford County. I highly recommend staying at The Lofts At One|Four|Seven, in Ingersoll.
Discovering the Charm of Olde Bakery Cafe in Ingersoll, Ontario
120 Thames Street South, Ingersoll, Ontario
If you happen to be in Ingersoll, Ontario and are looking for a cozy place to enjoy a delightful cup of coffee, delicious treats, or a hearty breakfast to begin your day, you won’t want to miss the Olde Bakery Cafe. This charming cafe is located in the heart of downtown Ingersoll on Thames Street North, just across from the beautiful Victoria Park and The Lofts At One|Four|Seven.
Olde Bakery Cafe is a converted bakery that was built in 1882 and maintains many of the classic details that add to its unique charm. From the brick façade to the antique furnishings, the atmosphere is one of the many reasons this café is adored by the locals.
The cafe serves delicious coffee prepared by baristas with years of experience who know how to brew coffee just the way you like it. They use beans from “Las Chicas Del Cafe” which is locally-roasted and known for its high-quality products. In addition to coffee, they offer a wide variety of teas, hot chocolates, and specialty drinks.
Besides coffee, Olde Bakery Cafe is known for its fresh-baked goods including scones, cookies, and cakes, all baked daily on-site. They also offer a variety of sandwiches, soup and quiche made with locally-sourced ingredients.
The bakery is well known for its welcoming atmosphere, cozy lighting and the friendly staff who go out of their way to make everyone feel comfortable. The seating options at Olde Bakery are perfect for all kinds of visitors, including couples, families, and solo coffee-drinkers.
Whether you are in the mood for a book or a chat, a place to work or just need to catch up with a friend, Olde Bakery Cafe has you covered. It’s a must-visit café in Ingersoll that guarantees a warm, charming, and delightful experience.
Nectar Coffee Shop – The Hidden Gem of Tilsonburg, Ontario
117 Broadway Street, Tillsonburg, Ontario
Located in the quaint town of Tilsonburg, Ontario, Nectar Coffee Shop is a hidden gem that cannot be overlooked. This coffee shop stands on Broadway Street, which is known for its charming architecture and beautiful posters. Nectar Coffee Shop has an inviting atmosphere that attracts coffee lovers from across the town.
Nectar Coffee Shop’s interior incorporates a minimalist design that includes natural elements such as wood and natural light to create a warm and serene atmosphere that is perfect for developing ideas, working on your laptop, or savoring a cup of java. The air conditioning is top-notch and the shop is sparkling clean and tidy.
The coffee shop is owned by a family that is passionate about coffee. They understand that quality coffee requires quality beans, which is why they source their beans from various Canadian roasters that roast locally. This ensures that their coffee is always fresh, unique, and distinct from the usual coffee available on the streets.
Their menu includes various coffee options, ranging from drip coffee to cappuccinos, lattes, and Americanos. They also offer seasonal drinks such as pumpkin spiced lattes, flavoured syrups and iced teas that cater to every taste bud.
Their pastries are not to be missed as all baked goods are made in house daily, using locally sourced seasonal ingredients. Popular items include muffins, cookies, cakes, donuts, and of course, the infamous butter tart.
The customer service at Nectar Coffee Shop is friendly, fast, and precise. The owners and staff are friendly and welcoming, ensuring that every customer feels valued and appreciated.
The Nectar Coffee Shop is without a doubt one of the best places to visit in Tilsonburg if you’re a coffee lover. With its incredible coffee offerings, comfortable and cozy ambience, free Wi-Fi, and very welcoming staff, you should definitely add this place to your list of coffee shops worth visiting when in Oxford County.
Brickhouse Brewpub
190 Fairway Road, Woodstock, Ontario
If you’re in Woodstock, Ontario, and you’re a beer enthusiast looking for a unique and vibrant atmosphere, then the Brickhouse Brewpub is a place you absolutely cannot miss. Located in downtown Woodstock, this brewpub is a haven for craft beer lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
Situated in a beautifully renovated historic building, the Brickhouse Brewpub effortlessly combines old-world charm with a modern and inviting atmosphere. The exposed brick walls, wooden floors, and carefully curated decor create a casual, cozy and welcoming ambiance that instantly makes you feel at home.
While the craft beer is undoubtedly the star of the show at Brickhouse Brewpub, they also have an impressive menu featuring delicious and mouthwatering dishes. From hearty burgers to comforting pub fare and vegetarian options, there is something to satisfy every palate. The chefs at Brickhouse Brewpub take great care in using locally sourced ingredients to create dishes bursting with flavor and creativity.
So, the next time you find yourself in Woodstock, make sure to add Brickhouse Brewpub to your itinerary.
Just One Tip: Bring your golf clubs, the golf course is right next door.
Upper Thames Brewing Company: A Haven For Beer Enthusiasts
If you find yourself in the picturesque area of Oxford County, Ontario, and happen to be a beer connoisseur or enthusiast, a visit to the Upper Thames Brewing Company is an absolute must. Nestled in the heart of the region, this brewery offers a unique and memorable experience for beer lovers of all kinds.
The Upper Thames Brewing Company is known for its commitment to brewing exceptional craft beers. As soon as you step through the doors, you’ll be greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere that reflects the passion and dedication that goes into creating their brews.
The brewery takes pride in its diverse selection of craft beers, each crafted with meticulous attention to detail and using only the finest ingredients. From hop-forward IPAs to rich and velvety stouts, there’s a beer for every palate. What sets Upper Thames Brewing Company apart is their commitment to experimentation and innovation, allowing them to create unique and unexpected flavors that will leave you pleasantly surprised.
When visiting Upper Thames Brewing Company, be prepared to embark on a journey of flavors. Take a seat at the rustic bar and let their knowledgeable staff guide you through a flight of their signature brews. Whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or a curious beginner, the staff is always happy to share their expertise and answer any questions you may have.
As you savor each sip, you’ll not only appreciate the complexity and craftsmanship of the beers but also gain a deeper understanding of the brewing process. From the use of quality ingredients to the art of balancing flavors, the passion that goes into each brew is evident in every drop.
One aspect that sets Upper Thames Brewing Company apart is its strong connection to the local community. The brewery actively collaborates with neighboring businesses, artisans, and farmers to source ingredients and support sustainability efforts. This commitment to community extends to the events they host, such as live music performances, trivia nights, and seasonal celebrations. It’s a place where locals and visitors alike can come together, share stories, and create lasting memories.
After experiencing the delights of Upper Thames Brewing Company, you’ll undoubtedly want to purchase a piece of the brewery’s magic.
Just One Tip: Ask your server for a free tour. However, be aware, that Monday’s are canning days and tours won’t always be available as there is a flurry of activity…. and remember to try “Take A Hike”. Even this non-beer drinker loved it.
Louie’s Pizza & Pasta
440 Bell Street, Ingersoll, Ontario
Located at 440 Bell Street in Ingersoll, Ontario, Louie’s Pizza & Pasta is a hidden gem that should not be missed by food enthusiasts and lovers of Italian cuisine. This charming restaurant offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, along with a delicious menu that will transport you straight to the heart of Italy.
At Louie’s Pizza & Pasta, you can expect nothing but the finest and most authentic Italian flavors. Their menu is filled with classic dishes that are made with love and expertise. From traditional pasta dishes like spaghetti carbonara and fettuccine Alfredo to mouthwatering pizza options, every bite at Louie’s is a culinary delight.
If you’re a pizza lover, you’re in for a treat at Louie’s. Their pizzas are made with fresh ingredients and baked to perfection in a brick oven, resulting in a crispy crust and flavors that will blow you away. Whether you prefer a classic margherita, a meat lover’s delight, or a vegetarian masterpiece, Louie’s has a pizza for everyone.
Louie’s Pizza & Pasta is not just about the food; it’s also about the warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. The cozy interior, adorned with Italian-inspired decor, creates a charming ambiance that adds to the overall dining experience.
The staff at Louie’s are friendly and attentive, making sure that every visit is a memorable one. Whether you’re dining with friends, family, or enjoying a romantic dinner for two, you can expect top-notch service that will leave you feeling well taken care of.
Just One Tip: Don’t let the name fool you. Louie’s Pizza & Pasta serves an amazing breakfast!
Elm Hurst Inn & Spa: A Culinary Delight
415 Harris Street, Ingersoll, Ontario
I would be remiss if I didn’t include the Elm Hurst Inn & Spa in the list of best places to eat and drink in Oxford County. Sadly, I ran out of time when visiting and I didn’t have the opportunity to savour the exceptional cuisine that the Elm Hurst Inn is known for.
Located at 415 Harris Street, Ingersoll, just off the 401, the Elm Hurst Inn holds a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. Originally built in 1872 as a private residence, the inn has undergone meticulous restorations to preserve its architectural beauty and timeless charm.
The menu at the Elm Hurst Inn showcases a fusion of local flavors and international influences. Each dish is prepared using ingredients sourced from local farmers and producers whenever possible. From appetizers to entrées and decadent desserts, the menu offers a wide range of options that cater to all palates and dietary preferences.
If you are in the area, you will want to visit the neighbouring Waterloo Region. Psst…..coffee lover’s can continue hunting for the best coffee shops in Waterloo Region located right next door to Oxford County.
Oxford County’s Best Places To Eat And Drink In Conclusion …
Whether you’re a local, just passing through the area, or a tourist in search of the best places to eat and drink in Oxford County, you will not be disappointed. Oxford County offers the foodie an abundance ofchoices to wet their palette and satisfy their hunger pains.
BON APPETIT 🙂
Travel Solo Like a Pro!
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PIN FOR YOUR VISIT TO OXFORD COUNTY
WoW! Great recs..saving this post for a future England visit!
I love this article, like I love all your articles, to be honest! You always make me dream to discover US. Such a pity flight tickets are so expensive now from Europe.
Yes, flights have skyrocketed in price that’s for sure!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and recommendations on the local eateries in oxford! Will remember your tips for a future trip!
Great post! The Elmhurst Inn looks so historic and charming.
It is. I was disappointed that I ran out of time on my last visit and didn’t get to eat there. It’s on the list for next time.