I’d suggest you add this beautiful area to your road-trip bucket list! The small-town charm, the foodie scene, the conversations, the community, the entrepreneurs–it’s beyond amazing to see this area flourish! The picturesque back roads were the first delight I enjoyed as I drive through from Kingston to downtown Belleville.
Capers
272 Front Street
I had scoped out their menu online ahead of time, and they featured an appetizer that simply made me smile: deep-fried mac ‘n’ cheese bites with spicy ketchup. As a kid at heart and comfort-food lover, I ordered that first. Each bite was as cheesy as the next, crunchy on the outside and ooey-gooey on the inside. I enjoyed the Riesling from Sandbanks Estate Winery. The relaxed ambiance set the mood as some of my favourite oldies played.
The Lark
199 Front Street, Suite 104
After you visit The Lark, bar seating might be your new favourite way of dining. The best part? You just might end up chatting with the owner like I did! The Lark’s low-key setting sets up a hip, industrial vibe. A friend had recommended I try the Suburban Divorcee, a cocktail I just had to have. It was bold and refreshing with an oomph of spice. If you want to try something new, try this.
Next up on the list was a cheese board with three divine Canadian cheese and other local fare. Was I full yet? Getting there, but I couldn’t resist the Bengal-spice crème brûlée, a perfect, sweet end to my night. I made my way back to the B&B to let my food coma settle.
Cheers to an amazing foodie evening, and sorry, Kingston–The Lark beats you in the crème brûlée department.
Henry Corby House
126 Bridge Street East
Only a few blocks from downtown Belleville, tucked away on a quiet street with other century homes, this bed and breakfast was truly a cozy home away from home. When I arrived, the warm and lovely host, Tara, greeted me, and as I walked in and glanced around, my jaw dropped. Every corner was filled with thoughtful touches, the accessories, the love seats, the beautifully decorated rooms, the comfy beds, the aromatherapy body lotion, the adorable reading nooks, the snacks and more.
You know what’s amazing when travelling alone? Getting the whole bed to yourself so you can lie on your back and starfish it out. I sat by a big bay window for breakfast the next morning, imagining the table setting in my own home. And for breakfast? I had the waffles with local maple syrup. Delicious!
The Brake Room
34 Dundas Street East
My day of discovering the region (and burning off some calories) was about to begin, but first, coffee. I had heard of The Brake room on Instagram and seen rave reviews, so visiting was a must.
This semi-new addition to the coffee scene in Belleville is all about serving its community of coffee lovers and cycling folks. I ordered a vanilla latte and blueberry pop tart–oh yes, I did–and I even got one to go for my foodie partner in crime.
For more on downtown Belleville, visit downtownbelleville.ca
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