Days are getting shorter and nights are getting cooler, but that doesn’t mean that we have to stop going for picnics in the park. Grab your family or a friend – from your social bubble! – and enjoy some delicious food in some of my favourite spots in the Bay of Quinte! I can’t tell you about ALL the amazing spots in our area, but here are five picnic pairings to get you started.
Don’t forget to take your waste and belongings with you when you leave!
Please make sure to abide by physical distancing protocols and to continue following Public Health guidelines surrounding COVID-19.
1. The Lark & Corby Rose Garden
Want to do something a little different for date night? Enjoy a romantic picnic dinner in Belleville’s historic Corby Rose Garden. Not only does it offer picturesque scenery, but you can also relax to the sound of water flowing in a beautiful stone fountain nearby. Swing by downtown and grab takeout from The Lark on your way over to the park. It’s hard to choose between their amazing takeout options, but I definitely recommend trying their charcuterie board. Definitely a great location for date night!
2. The 116 Bistro & Victoria Park
What better way to spend your day than with your family, grabbing a few of Bistro Burgers, some fresh pastries, and heading over to Victoria Park? Take in the scenic view of Meyers Pier while you sit among the trees and enjoy your lunch. Be the next foodie and snap some Instagram-worthy pics featuring the delightful bites from The 116 Bistro. End your day by taking a walk out to the rock point and grabbing an awesome socially-distanced group shot to capture the fun you had at Victoria Park!
3. Trenton Deli & Centennial Park
A great option for the whole gang! Order ahead at the Trenton Delicatessen and enjoy a variety of sandwiches made with imported European meats and cheeses, homemade breads and fresh toppings. Once you have your sandwich platter, head over to Centennial where you can take in the scenic Bay of Quinte from the shores of Quinte West. With plenty of shaded areas to choose from and lots of wide open space, this is definitely the spot to be for a picnic in the park.
4. Jerkebago & Murray Canal/Carrying Place
In my opinion, nothing says picnic like smoked jerk chicken! Jerkebago in Carrying Place is owned by Josh and Saiqa, who describe their food as Caribbean fusion. First, stop by on your way to the Murray Canal and grab yourself some of their smoked jerk chicken paired with a variety of delicious sides (creamy crunchy coleslaw and plantain chips is my go-to). Vegan diet? Not to worry! Jerkebago offers a yummy Jerk Vegan Burger – a great choice that doesn’t compromise on flavour. While you enjoy your lunch, take in the views of the nearby swing bridge, and watching the boats passing by! Call ahead for hours of operation.
5. Lola’s Cafe & Proctor Park Conservation Area
Proctor Park Conservation Area is a picture-perfect location for a picnic lunch. Bring your picnic blanket, relax, and fuel yourself with a flavourful lunch from Lola’s Cafe. To me, sharing (within your bubble, of course) makes everything taste better, so split a reuben sandwich and the Cobb salad. After lunch enjoy a hike on the 2.5-km trail that passes along amazing scenery. This is a great location to take in the fresh air and enjoy the changing colours of autumn.
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