St. Catharines

St. Catharines is the most populous city in Canada's Niagara Region, the eighth largest urban area in the province of Ontario. As of 2021, St. Catharines has an area of 96.20 square kilometres and 136,803 residents. Wikipedia.
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Top places to visit

4.6
(2116)
4.6
(405)
Mentioned on 
Museum
Specialty Museums
The St. Catharines Museum & Welland Canals Centre is a small yet captivating museum that offers a deep dive into the history of St. Catharines and the creation of the Welland Canal. Situated at Lock 3, visitors can explore local history exhibits and learn about the impressive engineering behind the canal. The museum also features an elevated observation platform where you can watch ships navigating through the canal system, providing a unique and educational experience for both kids and adults.
Date of visit Thursday may 1st, 2025 History in Motion! 🥍 🚢 Our visit to the St. Catharines Museum & Welland Canals Centre was an absolute highlight of our trip to explore the area around the Welland Canal and the many communities that it runs through. This place offers an experience that’s equal parts historic, scenic, and totally unique. The grounds are beautifully maintained, making it a peaceful and inviting spot to wander. But the true showstopper is the canal viewing platform, where we got front-row seats to watch massive ships navigate Lock 3 of the Welland Canal. Watching those vessels rise and lower is nothing short of mesmerizing—a real testament to human engineering and perseverance. Inside the museum, the exhibits are thoughtfully curated, covering a wide range of topics, from regional heritage to the remarkable history of the canal itself. We especially loved the Lacrosse Hall of Fame, a hidden gem within the museum that celebrates the deep-rooted cultural and sporting significance of Canada’s national summer sport. It's interactive, educational, and gives the game the spotlight it deserves. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a ship buff, or just looking for a unique stop in Niagara, this spot is a winner. We left feeling inspired, a little more informed, and already talking about a return visit. It was the perfect spot to start our Welland Canal History Road trip. There is ample free parking on site, and admission to the museum is 100% donations. Pay what you can afford to give.
Rogue T — Google review
What a beautiful and interesting place to learn about the history and how the Welland Canal works. It's also an excellent spot to discover and get familiar with one of Canada's national sports: lacrosse. The view of the canal from the observation deck is spectacular, and if you're lucky enough to see a ship in that water lock during your visit, the experience becomes even more impressive. The facility includes clean restrooms, large parking lot, gift shop, audio-visual room, rentable event spaces, picnic tables, an adjacent playground, and a beautiful memorial honoring the many workers who lost their lives over the canal's 200-year history.
Jg M — Google review
The St. Catharines Museum & Welland Canals Centre is one of those local gems that beautifully blends history, engineering marvels, and quiet charm. I stopped by on a sunny afternoon and was pleasantly surprised at how much there was to see and learn—especially for a museum that often flies under the radar compared to other Niagara-area attractions. The museum itself is well-curated, offering a deep dive into the history of St. Catharines and the vital role the Welland Canal played (and still plays) in Canada’s transportation story. I especially enjoyed the exhibits on early shipping, local industry, and the stories of the people who built and lived around the canal. But the real magic is outside, on the viewing platform. Watching the massive cargo ships pass through Lock 3, right in front of you, is absolutely mesmerizing. You get a true sense of scale and the incredible engineering that goes into canal navigation. It’s great for kids and adults alike—you can spend a peaceful hour just ship-watching. Your kids can borrow a backpack of explorer. It is free and welcome for donation. The staff are friendly and informative, and the building is clean and accessible, with plenty of parking. Whether you’re a history buff, an engineering fan, or just curious, this museum is well worth the visit.
Johnny W — Google review
A fabulous museum of not only the Welland Canal (impressive in its own right) but also of the town of St. Catherine’s. It’s an absolute credit to the town and the museum founders/staff/managers to have the foresight and dedication to amass such a wealth of history and their culture from colonial times right up to modern history. Excellently preserved classic cars, lacrosse history, but the small stuff too e.g. a display in the towns Soap Box derby which ran I. The 60s & 70s. I could have stayed here for hours. Best to time your visit to coincide with some of the big ships passing through the canal (check the ship tracking apps/websites) and then check out the museum, all of which is free.
Gerry B — Google review
A great place to visit in St Catharines. Completely free though donations are accepted. A history of the Welland canal system and the Ontario Lacrosse museum. There is also a nice little park on site.
Jaikob H — Google review
The museum was interesting and the staff very helpful. We watched a mid size shop go through the lock and another larger one go back through the lock. A great experience.
Shaila S — Google review
Awesome experience. Very cool to see the massive ship, the locks, and draw bridges. The museum itself is packed with cool historical items and it's free to visit. For anyone driving to or from Niagara this spot is a must visit. Little kids will be amazed at the sights.
M G — Google review
St. Catherines Museum and Welland canal was a cool experience. Seeing the boat in lock three was an interesting experience. The museum inside features several unique artifacts about local history, interesting and interactive sections for kids, and a lacross history section. Overall great experience!
Kainat S — Google review
4.7
(1296)
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Performing arts theater
Located in downtown St. Catharines, the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre is a modern cultural hub that hosts a diverse range of events, including live concerts, films, and dance workshops. The center features four venues and is known for delivering top-quality shows. Alongside other entertainment venues in the area like the Meridian Centre and Warehouse Concert Hall, it contributes to the lively arts scene of St. Catharines.
I’m very impressed with the PAC, a high quality venue for a city the size of St Catharine’s. The lobby and entry areas are big and bright. The seating is VERY comfortable, and the smaller size of the venue means you’re always close to the stage. We were Row N, middle of the way, but it still felt like we were right close up! Acoustics are good, would’ve preferred slightly less decay time, but that’s just my preference really. That it’s downtown means there are a number of restaurants and bars to hang out at before and/or after the show.
Steven D — Google review
First time visiting here and is a great venue . We sat in row H and will definitely keep this in mind as it’s at the right height compared to the stage level and basically we were at eye level with the musicians.
Ralph C — Google review
The acoustics are awesome in here. We came here a few times now, the entertainment never disappoints. All the staff are very friendly and helpful.
Deb M — Google review
First time visiting to watch Howie Mandel who, a long with his opening act, were hilarious. Facility was clean and spacious, seating comfortable and washrooms were clean and modern. All staff were also welcoming and friendly.
Peter D — Google review
Saw Elton John Impersonator this week. Fabulous show. This guy has talent. The venue was filled with helpful staff and a very clean venue. Sound is unbelievable. Would recommend for any show they present.
Trudy C — Google review
Went to see James Barker Band and had great seats on the balcony left side. Unfortunately, the enjoyment of the concert was not enjoyable due to smoke constantly coming out of the wall in front of us. Breathing was hard and ended up leaving early with a massive headache. We brought the matter to a representative but they never came back to give us feedback. 2 other couples had the same concerns
Mario L — Google review
This was my first time at the performing arts center and it didn't disappoint. The view from the seats was amazing and very comfortable. All the ushering folks are volunteers and we're very helpful on directing everyone to their seats. Ordering drinks before the show and picking up during intermission is a great idea. Kuddoos for this.
Linda M — Google review
Cute entertainment venue. Every space was incredibly clean, modern, and kept very well, including the washrooms, and everything looked new still despite them celebrating their 10th year anniversary. Our show was in the recital hall which is the smaller of the theatres but the seats were amazingly comfy and the space had good acoustics. Staff were helpful and friendly :) Drinks also, at the bar, surprisingly did not require a mortgage. $3 for water and $2.50 for soda may have been the most refreshing aspect.
Andrew K — Google review
4.7
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4.4
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Temporarily Closed
Zoo
Nature & Parks
Happy Rolph's Animal Farm, located in Grantham Ward near Lake Ontario, is a charming park offering a variety of activities for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the diverse wildlife and plants in a picturesque natural setting while enjoying tranquil seating areas and scenic views of the lake. The farm features designated viewing areas where guests can observe adorable animals from a distance. Families can also take advantage of picnic pavilions, playgrounds, and walking trails, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing day out.
Small farm with duck feeding and beautiful view. You can buy the duck food on site for 1$ per cup. Nice park and picnic spot .4 huge tables with shade to have a picnic in all weather conditions. Onsite free parking. Ice cream truck was also available on spot. There was a memorial for twin tower deceased with their names , age and which floor they worked etc.
Adeline S — Google review
Date of Visit: Saturday, June 28, 2025 If you're looking for a wholesome, relaxing way to spend a few hours, Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm is a must-visit. Nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario, this charming spot offers a mix of nature, history, and animal encounters that’s perfect for all ages. We were delighted to see a variety of farm animals available for adoption, including cows, horses, donkeys, pigs, and ducks—all well cared for and clearly loved. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about animal care and even consider giving one a forever home. Beyond the barnyard, we explored the waterfront walking trail, which winds through peaceful greenery and offers beautiful lake views. One of the most moving parts of our visit was the 9/11 Memorial Walk, where trees are dedicated to individuals—many from the local area—who lost their lives in the 2001 attacks. It’s a quiet, reflective space that adds a meaningful layer to the experience. The grounds are clean, well-maintained, and welcoming. Whether you're visiting with kids, friends, or just looking for a solo stroll, this place offers a refreshing break from the bustle of everyday life. Final Thoughts: A hidden gem that combines education, remembrance, and the simple joy of connecting with animals and nature. Don’t miss it if you’re in the Niagara region! There is plenty of onsite parking – but as this place is often used for birthday parties, and has frequent visitors, the lot can get full and street parking needs to be used. It is free to visit.
Rogue T — Google review
Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm – A Family Treasure by the Lake Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm is such a special place where the love for animals, family time, and nature all come together. It’s both a sanctuary for rescued animals and a welcoming spot for families to relax, play, and connect with the outdoors. The farm is home to a variety of animals including a deaf pig 🐖, cow 🐄, goats 🐐, sheep 🐑, horses 🐴 (a mother and her baby), ducks 🦆, geese 🪿, and more. Over the years I’ve also seen llamas, chickens, and other animals. It’s heartwarming to know each one has found a safe place here. While dogs aren’t allowed in the animal area, they are welcome on the trails outside, so you can still enjoy a walk with your pup. The property itself is stunning—tucked into a natural forest 🌳, surrounded by tall old trees and overlooking the lake. It’s the perfect spot for a hike or picnic 🧺 with the whole family. A scenic trail winds past three connected ponds that lead to the lake, home to geese, ducks, and turtles 🐢. Families with children will especially love the large playground. It’s spacious and well-designed, with swings for babies, bigger kids, and even accessible swings for children with disabilities. There are five different slides 🛝, a tractor 🚜, a boat swing 🛶, and interactive games like loops and hooks. Picnic tables—some shaded—make it easy to enjoy a meal outdoors, and the washrooms are big and clean. Another unique feature is the lakeside memorial walk, which honors the lives lost on 9/11 with dedicated trees and plaques—a peaceful and meaningful space to sit on the benches and reflect while overlooking the lake. Parking is never a problem, with plenty of spaces both on-site and nearby street parking. All in all, Happy Rolph’s is more than just an animal farm—it’s a place where kids can play, families can bond, animals are cared for, and everyone can enjoy the beauty of nature. I’ve been visiting for several years, and it continues to be one of my favorite local spots to return to. Please donate to this amazing cause and become part of this wonderful community so we can all help to make it possible to create something special for all to enjoy and help to save animals in need.
Venao S — Google review
This is such a lovely place for the whole family. If you’re just looking for a nice place for a walk, or a place for the kids. This place is truly lovely. I’ve been coming here since I was a little kid and im so glad it’s still here. The whole place is super clean.
Alycia P — Google review
Happy Rolphs is truly at the core of family and simple pleasures. Gorgeous walkway and sunset, tons of ducks, turtles, a resident skunk and of course all the little petting zoo animals. It has a huge playground for kids that looks to be updated annually because all the equipment looks brand new. I came here as a kid, and I love it still in my adulthood
Jessica D — Google review
An amazing place to stop for a picnic with the family. A small farm animal sanctuary with lots of trails and beautiful views. Very clean and well maintained. Staff were very friendly.
Jaikob H — Google review
It was a great experience at Happy Rolph’s Animal Farm. The animals look nice and healthy. The area with the animals is a little small, but the farm itself and the trails are quite big. There are a lot of geese on the trails, so beware of that. There is a free parking and even on Sunday there were free spaces. Additionally no tickets are needed.
Anna — Google review
Considering it’s free this is a really nicely done place. The grounds are worth exploring and the 9/11 memorial trail was striking. Make sure you donate while you’re there. Very easy via the QR code. The hook and swing was weirdly addictive.
Rob S — Google review
4.4
(1458)
4.5
(11)
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Park
Nature & Parks
Montebello Park in St. Catharines, Ontario is a charming green space designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the same mind behind New York City's Central Park. The park boasts a stunning rose garden with over 1,300 bushes of 25 different varieties. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics, and summer concerts at the bandshell. The park also hosts various events like wine and food festivals and live entertainment. With its central location in downtown St.
Went there for Rib Fest....great music, excellent food. They even have a wine tent and an ice cream truck!! They park is more than that...great place to visit. Kids swing/playground and nice grounds. If there is an event there, it's usually good. Washrooms are on the grounds. The only downfall is parking. Go early or walk a ways.
Paul C — Google review
It's a great park .but if there's going to be hosting events ( winery's), they must put out ashtrays the cigarettes butts all over the ground was disgusting. There are so many other options. We asked the gentleman at the gate , and his response was we don't encourage smoking ... just littering . Give a hoot don't pollute.
Blue O — Google review
Had the most amazing time at the Grape and wine festival, The music was awesome, the choice of vendors was great, had so much fun.
Rodney H — Google review
Another park adventure! Nice soft play mat. Lots of benches for families to sit near the park itself. It was surrounded by lots of shade. Park is great for all ages. Children must be accompanied. Chonky squirrels. Beautiful rose garden. It seemed clean for most of the part. Would have given a 4 star, but there were 6 homeless persons passed out in the gazebo, a few sleeping on the benches throughout the park. Or some leaving their belongings on the bench so no one would sit on it.
R H — Google review
Amazing night at Born and Raised!! Watched Metric & City in Colour. Great views, fantastic music,friendly crowd. So well organized!
Bill S — Google review
We went for the born&Raised festival. It was a great space for it. Lots of street parking around the neighborhood. A good amount of shady spots to cool off in the park. They had a bathroom building but it was closed for the festival and they used outhouse only.
Shyanne T — Google review
Nice park, lots of space, really great for outdoor concerts!
Gabby R — Google review
Beautiful park, spacious and very nice to spend time with the family.
Jossuha Z — Google review
64 Ontario St, St. Catharines, ON L2R 5J5, Canada+1 905-688-5600Tips and more reviews for Montebello Park
4.5
(36)
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Nature & Parks
Waterfalls
DeCew Falls is situated just outside of St. Catharines, approximately a 20-minute drive west of Niagara. The falls drop 72 feet and offer the unique opportunity to walk behind the cascading water, although reaching this spot requires a steep climb into the gorge. Along the hiking trail to the falls, visitors will encounter a historic 19th-century grain mill and traverse through scenic forests.
St. Catharines, ON L2R 6P7, CanadaTips and more reviews for DeCew Falls

Top places to eat

4.5
(551)
3.8
(23)
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Restaurant
Fat Rabbit is a unique dining experience where you can participate in creating your own charcuterie spread and select your preferred cut of meat from their display case. The restaurant offers tapas-style dining with small plates and shareable sides, making it perfect for group meals. Their sticky toffee pudding comes highly recommended as a must-try dessert. As both a butcher shop and restaurant, Fat Rabbit provides an extensive selection of meats, including in-house sausages and various cuts of protein.
Incredible from start to finish. Booked via OpenTable. Messaged them to say that we were going to be late due to traffic and they couldn’t be more helpful - and told us not to worry! It was the final dinner of our honeymoon and they went well beyond the service we’d expected. The food was delicious. Definitely deserves their Michelin accolade and 100% worth the detour from our Niagara hotel. Photos are of the mixed grill, burger, summer squash and sticky toffee pudding. But they will live long in our memory without the need for visual reference. The perfect way to celebrate the end of our honeymoon. Thanks team! 🫶
Andy P — Google review
Fat Rabbit - St. Catharines Tried: Beef Tartare, Crispy Humboldt Squid, Cheeseburger, Rib Steak, and Crispy Potatoes The beef tartare was a standout.fresh, balanced, and beautifully presented over crisp fried flatbread. Every bite had a mix of texture and flavour that just worked. The cheeseburger was amazing.juicy, layered with gruyère, caramelized onions, and dijonnaise, easily one of the best burgers I’ve had lately. The rib steak was cooked perfectly, juicy and flavourful with that deep, smoky char that shows real skill in the kitchen. The crispy potatoes were golden and light with 2 special sauces , a great side to everything. The squid was fine, but didn’t hit the same high notes as the rest of the dishes. Overall, Fat Rabbit nails the balance between comfort food and fine-dining precision. Great atmosphere, thoughtful plates, and everything feels made with care. Definitely worth the trip to St. Catharines.
Abdalla A — Google review
Had a great experience at Fat Rabbit lastnight. Service was on point and very attentive. Porterhouse steak was cooked perfectly. A nod to the summer slaw and squash dish, both were excellent. We celebrated a birthday and there was even a birthday card waiting for us at our table! A nice little touch to make the night even more special. Thank you so much for the great hospitality. We will definitely be back.
Kevin M — Google review
Oh yea! This place hit the spot after a day wondering around Niagara. We tried to order as much as we could eat and we devoured everything! Started with some charcuterie and the meats and cheeses were so fresh but the truffle salami was the standout! The Nduja Rosa Rigatoni was perfectly cooked and the flavour layered very nice with the steak. We got the 100 day dry aged striploin and it was fantastic! If you’re only going to order 1 side then let it be the delicanta squash! This was 1000/10 you will not be disappointed! Ended our dinner for what was the best dessert we have ever had, the sticky toffee pudding. We also got the carrot cake dessert as we love carrot cake and while it was an amazing carrot cake we have to admit, the sticky toffee was just out of this world!! A must try if you’re in the area! And 20% the freezer section when you dine in, we took home some jerk sausage. Can’t wait to try!
Brandon C — Google review
Stopped in on a Saturday afternoon expecting a long wait and we were able to get a table! I’ve had here on my want to try list for awhile and it was SO WORTH IT!! The burger was amazing and the bread was so soft! The whole thing just melted in your mouth! The crispy potato’s were great and we loved seeing a few NA drink options! I was so sad we didn’t have room for dessert but I’m already planning our next trip back! Our server was so warm, welcoming, and kind! I didn’t catch her name but she definitely made our experience comfortable and great! I would highly recommend here!
Stephanie P — Google review
Came with my little family of 5 and had a fantastic experience. We ordered the cheeseburger, roast beef sandwich, charcuterie for 2, crispy potatos and French onion soup. Everything was great and just the right amount for us (2 adults and 3 kids). My only thought would be the French onion soup, while the size of the bowl is fantastic, it is alot to get through. A slightly smaller size would be just right. Otherwise, looking forward to my next visit. Also, I generally hate pickles but their in house pickles were absolutely out of this world for me. Would love to have the option to be able to purchase them.
Cathrina B — Google review
Fat Rabbit in St. Catharines was a win. Sat at the bar and ended up chatting with the chef—always a great vibe when the team’s that involved. Had a few drinks (okay, more than a few) and ordered a mix of dishes. The burger was unreal—beefy, juicy, and packed with flavour. Was a bit skeptical about all the pickles at first, but they totally made sense—cut right through the richness. Tried a few individual cured meats: the house-made summer sausage was my favourite, with the coppa coming in close behind. Also grabbed some Wildwood cheese (not made in house, but absolutely bomb). Finished with the beef tartare, which came with a super creative twist: crispy fried halloumi, raisins, and honey. That mix of salty and sweet hit just right. Service was dope too—got checked on often, and the crew made sure I always had what I needed without being overbearing. Food, drinks, and atmosphere were all on point. A solid 7.9 dining experience. #TomEatsYummyFoodBecauseWhyNot
Thomas W — Google review
We had the mixed grill. Found it to be a bit spicy and the sauces on every piece of meat drowned out the flavor of the actual meats. The meats were served rare as we were not asked a temp. We also thought our grilled meats were cold , but that is Rare ( cool temp ) . The crispy squid was excellent and so was the layered zucchini ( parmigiana style ) as a side. Sour dough bread with olive oil. The room itself is open concept and you are seating closely next to others. You are in a butchery. Cool concept. Service was great!
Lorena R — Google review
34 Geneva St, St. Catharines, ON L2R 4M4, Canadahttp://fat-rabbit.ca/+1 905-688-6553Tips and more reviews for Fat Rabbit
4.7
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4.8
(14)
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Restaurant
Cocktail bar
Pharmacii offers a unique dining experience with delicious Korean food. The small kitchen brings out similar dishes together, making it easier to share with others. The cocktails are phenomenal but pricey, and the seasonal menu changes regularly. Customers praise the owner, mixologist, and chef for creating an exceptional experience. The restaurant is known for its carefully curated food and drinks that offer a burst of flavors in every bite.
I tried the KFC chicken and calamari, and both were tasty. I also had two cocktails, which were enjoyable but a bit pricey. Had 2 bubble shots, mango flavored which were amazing. The atmosphere and service were good, making it a nice spot for a casual meal. If you're looking for a place to relax and enjoy some decent food and drinks, I'd recommend checking it out!
Kiki E — Google review
Cannot recommend this restaurant enough! If you’re looking for an amazing culinary experience, this is it! I would recommend seating out side (weather permitting). Great service, amazing food (my favourite was the sausage- looking dish in the picture, it’s actually delicious mushroom macaroni!!), a little more expensive but 100% worth the experience!
Day A — Google review
The food here is absolutely delicious! Every dish was packed with flavor and prepared with so much care. The menu offers a great variety, and everything we tried was outstanding. It’s definitely one of those places where you want to come back just to try more items. Highly recommended!
최송이 — Google review
Wow what a novel place and unique experience. Very hip place that from the outside you cannot even tell it’s a spot that produces delicious food and craft cocktails. It’s relatively dim lighting with really cool retro pieces accenting the space. Service was excellent. First time there and our server went through how everything works which was very helpful. There is not a lot of seating so if you go on a busier day you might have to wait a bit. we tried 6 different cocktails and ordered several dishes. It’s tapas style so don’t be afraid to order a lot because you will find room to finish everything, thats how good every dish was.
Marty B — Google review
Personally some of the best food I’ve ever had. The menu cycles seasonally, cycling through different creative themes for drinks. My mocktail was very refreshing and not too sweet. The atmosphere was very nice, with beautiful cutlery and a beautifully designed menu containing some humorous comments and descriptions. Overall, I would highly recommend coming to this restaurant with friends to share food + drinks with.
Jonah G — Google review
Pharmacii is an eclectic and fun spot that stands out for its creative vibe and unique cocktail selection. The menu features a wide variety of interesting and inventive drinks, perfect for anyone looking to try something new. That said, even the classics are well executed, my rum and coke was surprisingly delicious. It’s a great place to stop by for a quick drink, whether you’re in the mood for something adventurous or just a well-made standard. Casual, quirky, and worth a visit.
Bianca D — Google review
The drinks are actually iconic, I got some kind of home made bell pepper drink that was so so fresh and light, likely the best drink I've ever had in my life, my partner got a Dorito elote served in an ACTUAL Dorito bag?? So cool, very campy creative and incredible drinks, with sensational presentation and service. Also, as most reviews before me say, GET the shaker fries 🤤
Jessica D — Google review
Had an excellent experience at Pharmacii today! Alex was our server and was wonderful! Super patient with my friend and I taking our time with the menu and gave us some thoughtful recommendations! We each got a cocktail and shared 2 plates, both the bao sliders and calamari!
Brooke M — Google review
4.7
(998)
4.6
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affordable
Vegan restaurant
Rise Above Restaurant is a beloved establishment in St. Catharines, Ontario, known for its delightful array of vegan dishes and baked goods. This airy and casual cafe offers a variety of comfort foods such as sandwiches, pasta, and baked goods that cater to both health-conscious eaters and food enthusiasts. The restaurant's commitment to sustainability and locally sourced ingredients adds to its charm, providing a cozy ambiance for patrons to savor innovative plant-based cuisine.
Adorable and peaceful ambiance. Amazing service with delicious food. The seitan and waffles were to die for. The maple glazed breakfast sandwich was incredible. Crispy breakfast potatoes and mouth watering mains. I loved the coffee and the latte. Will definitely be back!!
Angela J — Google review
Love this place! While visiting the area we ate here 3 days in a row because it was so good. The staff was helpful and friendly. Great options and delicious food from start to finish. They have great seitan. Highly recommend the whiskey peach tea, watermelon greek salad, street corn gnocchi and the raspberry nanaimo. If you love ganache, get the nanaimo!
Simone W — Google review
A 10/10 must stop foodie restaurant. We enjoyed 1) the gobbler: a vegan spin on a thanksgiving sandwich with gravy for dipping and 2) the halloumi hot honey sandwich: a vegan hot grilled halloumi cheese with pesto and tofu bacon jam with greens. Both of our dishes were excellent for taste, texture, and presentation. Thank you Heather for hosting us and answering all our menu questions. So many choices and styles of dishes here at Rise Above. Truly a must stop shop! We will be returning tomorrow for a homemade vegan pumpkin cheesecake.
Nikki E — Google review
Thank you for an incredible foodie experience ~⭐️ We enjoyed sharing some nibbles, like the ever popular stuffed mushrooms, cheezy dip, and the maple seitan wings! We also really enjoyed the cheezecake slice for dessert after our long drive back home. Like a cozy hug, after a long day...thank you. Chef Anne
Anne T — Google review
Food so good we drove 20+ minutes 3 days in a row to eat here. All vegan menu with great offerings and specials. Pictured is the sweet potato burger burger and the jerk chicken bowl (special) the house made jerk sauce is one of the best jerk seasonings I've ever had, and the Seiten was cooked expertly. The waitstaff was also great. Would recommend to anyone in the area. They also offer freezer/fridge to go food items and offer the house made sauces to go.
Dean W — Google review
Need 100% vegan? "Rise Above" has got you covered! The food, service & atmosphere were good. Their Pumpkin Cheesecake 😋 DELICIOUS!! I drove back (20mins) the following day just to get some more! If you haven't tried them you're missing out! Don't think you'll like vegan food...then maybe you don't like good flavors. 🤣 I tried the Tomato Basil soup (cup), the "Thanksgiving Sandwich" Potato Wedges, Vanilla Cheesecake with Blueberry Compote, & Pumpkin Cheesecake... YUMMMMM!!
Justaperson — Google review
I have never tried 100% vegan food. And i was surprised the food was so delicious, flavourful, fulfilling and what not. The best salad i ever had. Every bite of food is flavourful. You will taste the thought in every meal they prepare. Staff is supper friendly and amazing as there food. The restaurant is pretty and cute. Pesto grilled sandwich is not be missed . One of yummy sandwiches i had. This going to be my favourite sandwich in entire niagara. Soft and crunchy at the same time. This is going to be one of best founds. This is must visit ❤️. Because this is the only way to find how beautiful and delicious vegan food can be.
Charu R — Google review
The staff are friendly and ready to make you feel at home. As a parent, it is hard to find places that are inclusive and welcoming of families and Rise Above does not disappoint! They have a high chair that is actually safe for little ones and reaches the table and is clean, they have an affordable kids menu with items my kids will actually eat, coloring pages! The food is amazing, they always have fun and yummy specials as well as classic staples. I recommend this restaurant to all my friends-- vegans and non vegans. The comfort bowl, mac and cheese and seitan wrap are favorites that I could literally eat every single day. They also support community organizations and are an inclusive space AND woman owned. Love this place!
Claudia R — Google review
4.5
(1392)
4.0
(49)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Italian restaurant
The Twisted Pig | Italian Kitchen offers a unique twist on Mediterranean classics by using plant-based alternatives for chicken, cheese, and meat. The restaurant's secret menu features crowd favorites like Mediterranean nachos, mushroom fries, and a Roma burger made with a breaded and fried Roma tomato. Situated in Port Dalhousie, the restaurant boasts one of the city's largest patios and is conveniently located near the reconstructed pier for post-dinner strolls.
Our experience was incredible! We are quite picky when it comes to Italian food outside of Italy but this restaurant truly exceeded our expectations. We tried quite a few dishes and each one was spectacular! We tried the famous brussels sprouts and they were truly amazing. Julie took care of our table and she was absolutely wonderful and kind. She was also very knowledgeable about the menu and made some fantastic recommendations. She added so much to our experience. I can’t wait to come back!
Juni K — Google review
Brussel Sprouts were exceptional. Garden Salad was fresh and the maple dressing was tasty. Atmosphere was upscale enough but not pretentious. Prosciutto pizza was a tad underwhelming flavour but fresh nonetheless less. Great views from patio. Pizza took a bit in between completion of h'our douvres. Will go back again.
Matt H — Google review
Recently, we visited this cozy Italian restaurant and it was an absolute delight. We were warmly welcomed, and from the very first moment, we felt the inviting atmosphere. We were served aromatic bread with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and the drink selection was impressive – Italian wine and excellent beer. The main dishes were simply exquisite: wood oven baked pizza, amazing veal parmesan, tender salmon with potatoes, a juicy steak, duck confit, and soup – each dish was not only delicious but also beautifully presented. The plating was truly mesmerizing, making the entire dining experience a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. I would definitely give the chef a perfect score, as I was thoroughly impressed! Additionally, our waitress was wonderfully tactful, never pushy, and she checked in on us periodically. We will definitely come back.
Julia S — Google review
It is no wonder the Twisted Pig is busy. The food is delicious! The pasta dishes, and pizza’s were very well prepared. You will not be disappointed. I added garlic shrimp to my Caesar salad, they were done to perfection! The Frutti de Mare large shrimp, mussels and nduja salami in a spicy tomato sauce was next level! Service was great and attentive. We sat on the patio overlooking the water. We will definitely be back!
Sherri C — Google review
Service was fantastic! Dessert was really good too! The pizzas were all burnt on edges and underneath, but I guess that's what they do (seeing the other photos here) I had the vegetable pizza which was more like bruschetta thrown on the middle of it and half the pizza was just plain dough. It was so flimsy I had to use cutlery to eat the pizza. If I go back it would be for a coffee and dessert only, but I doubt I will. It was fairly priced. I think I just expected better. I did not have that WOW feeling when I left.
Sarah J — Google review
We went here for lunch on a sunny day during summer. It’s right by the harbour. We had great spot by the window looking over the water. We started with Burrata Salad - appetizing and fresh. Not unique but surely refreshing. Then we had pasta for dinner. I was recommended gnocchi Gorgonzola it was good, unique flavour combining sweet honey nectar/ elderflower with creamy cheese. The dish was good, but the portions were smaller for my expectations, the other pasta dish had a good portion size. Then we got dessert, I got the crème brûlée. It was unique, with citrus zest and cardamom although the crisp sugar layer was burnt for us. That made the dish bitter to start with. Overall it was good experience. You sure can stop by for the views and food is decent but not somewhere I’ll go ever so often! Thank you to our dining and service staff for letting us dine in!
Dhairya S — Google review
We celebrated our anniversary this past weekend on a recommendation. Our server was late for her shift but the waitress that took over for her was amazing and actually kept our table. Our food was fantastic, we got oysters, the charcuterie board, we each got a pizza (proccutio and buratta, and the duck) both were delicious. We got the tiramisu and carrot cake for dessert. Everything was yummy and we brought home lots of leftovers
Jen D — Google review
Really great atmosphere and the food was delicious. The fresh fresh and oil was such a great touch, and the meatball appetizer was tasty. My husband had the gnocchi and I had the chicken piccata. Both were great!
Darlene V — Google review
4.9
(302)
4.5
(58)
Mentioned on 
Permanently Closed
Restaurant
Dispatch is a newly transformed mixed-use space that houses an eclectic set of patrons, including the first permanent restaurant by Australian-born Adam Hynam-Smith. The restaurant has gained recognition, being chosen as one of the country's ten best new restaurants by Air Canada. The menu offers a diverse range of global cuisines, from crispy chicken schnitzel from Germany to pan-seared halloumi from Greece. Despite its upscale presentation and flavors, Dispatch maintains a friendly and laid-back atmosphere.
Some of the best food, the best people and lovely amostohere I've ever been to. Not only were the servers the most humble and amazing people I've met, but it was legit some of the best food I've had in a long time. The tuna tartar was umami rich, crunchy and bursting with flavour. The butter candle was.... Well, a candle. How creative and lovely with the Smokey burnt focaccia was just melt in your mouth! The seafood linguine was just light, tasty and full of seafood. Glad we got here and met these amazing people. ❤️❤️❤️
Claire L — Google review
What a great find on a weekend out in wine country! Jake was our server and was so so kind, and had some great local recommendations for us to check out. The food from the kitchen and the drinks from the bar were so lovely - fun and engaging food that was interesting and filling! Cool takes on really nicely technically-executed dishes that were fun to share. Super cool that they’re a living wage employer, too. The value was shocking when we got the bill. Great job, Dispatch!
Emily Q — Google review
My wife and I came here on our visit to St. Catherine's during the winter holidays; located in downtown St. Catherine's, this restaurant is located in the first suite on the main floor. Their sign is hard to read at night in the photos, but is well designed with a nice logo. Being in downtown, parking may be hard to find; there is paid metered parking, but parking is free on the weekends and free after 6pm on weekdays. We were greeted by a staff member who was not wearing any uniform but in casual clothing. None of the staff had uniforms but looked very relaxed and welcoming. The atmosphere was very welcoming with little lighting but definitely enough to light up the place and to provide great ambiance. The staff were very friendly and even sparks conversations with customers. One thing our waiter pointed out was that they do not take tips/gratuities which was a bit different than what most North Americans are used to. My wife and I got fried olives, Thai popcorn, smoked salmon cones (comes in three), one duck bao, and one lamb slider. Out of what we ordered, I recommend the smoked salmon cones, duck bao, and lamb slider. The smoked salmon cones came in a bowl of black beans (not edible but decorative); the shells were delicate and broke easily when bites but tasted pretty good. The duck bao was a bit bigger than the lamb slider but both were fairly small. Even though they were small, they were very flavourful. Even though we didn't get a "main" dish, I find this place more fitting for casual get-togethers than a full meal. The digital menu is rather small, with the drink portion bigger than the food portion. Since the menu is so small, I think a well-designed physical menu might be more practical or appealing. Having said that, their prices are fair and the food is not too bad. Overall, I highly recommend giving this place a try. With the exceptional service and heart-warming atmosphere, this will definitely be a highlight to any trip made to St. Catherine's, whether if you are a local or from out of town.
Brian T — Google review
We've been for cocktails, dinner, and brunch. Everything is amazing and some of the food is truly mind-blowing. The eggs benedict is phenomenal, highly recommend. We also got the croque madame and were stuffed - in a good way! The staff are so kind and energetic. The cocktails are unique and delicious. Honestly, no complaints!
Morgan A — Google review
Popped in for a late afternoon Sunday brunch - place was empty but service was great. The food - we had the Fries, Calamari, and Baked Brie - was unreal. Very easily sharable or edible on your own. The seaweed Fries was one of the most unique things I have had in ages. Lots of very small unique craft brews as well - not your run of the mill 'major craft' beers - lots of different stuff here. All in all, great and highly recommended.
Brandon P — Google review
I have always had an amazing experience here from service and food. Your dishes are served at an efficient rate, in addition to your first bite are always filled with an explosion of flavour. You cannot go wrong. The cook and bar manager were very personable. We had short but sweet conversation but are always filled with immense love for what they do. 😊 it's such a gem in Ontario. I would always make the trip here and of course visit the wineries. Make a day out of it, it will never disappoint.
Joyce L — Google review
Great food and amazing service! The butter candle and the duck baos were the standouts. Highly recommend this place if you are around St.Catherines. Looking forward to their brunch menu next time around!
Akshata M — Google review
The service and atmosphere was amazing, and the food was incredibly flavorful. It's a great place to get a small bite to eat and enjoy some delicious cocktails. Will definitely be back!
Misheal R — Google review
386 St Paul St, St. Catharines, ON L2R 3N2, Canada+1 289-273-2393Tips and more reviews for Dispatch

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