Stratford

Stratford is a city on the Avon River in southwest Ontario, Canada. Its Stratford Festival stages modern and Shakespearean plays in multiple theatres. Victorian buildings dot the city, including Stratford City Hall and the Perth County Courthouse. The city’s many parks and gardens include the Shakespearean Gardens, with plants mentioned in the playwright’s works. Gallery Stratford displays primarily Canadian art.
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4.4
(141)
4.1
(44)
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Art gallery
Sights & Landmarks
Gallery Stratford is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, boasting a diverse collection of contemporary and historical Canadian and international artwork. Housed in the city's original pump house, this gallery offers rotating exhibitions and events throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy a self-guided audio tour that includes a stop at Gallery Stratford, where they can explore public sculptures on the grounds. The gallery provides an educational and interactive experience, making it an ideal destination for both seasoned art lovers and those seeking inspiration.
As an artist, I absolutely love going to art gallery's of all sorts. This one was very beautiful, the art work was great to look at and experience. Good snowy date idea.
Tanya — Google review
Small gallery with a couple of mostly underwhelming pieces (though a few are really good). As it is - charging $12 for admission is kind of ridiculous - the McMichael gallery offers 4 floors of amazing Canadian art for less than that. Would be cute as free to view, having paid for it left a bad impression.
Artem S — Google review
The gallery is a charming little place in a beautiful town. What amazed me was the installation by John Notten, which has a unique character and narrative. I believe such an installation is the result of a thoughtful choice by the curators, so I highly recommend visiting this gallery.
Shaghayegh Y — Google review
There are a couple of beautiful positions over here. The entry is free but if you are generous, you can leave a donation. You can donate online too.
Harisha P — Google review
Took my daughter to the Sunday art drop-in from 1-3 and we both had a blast. Only problem was that the lady leading the group spilled glaze on my purse and hot pink paint on my daughter's coat and boots. Other than that, the amount and quality of art was fantastic and we drove all the way from London. The people who greeted us when we came in were lovely and there just happened to be muffins, tea and juice that day. Take some cash for a donation!
Jennifer S — Google review
Out dated open at 12pm , people who go go in the morning. Not promoted enough, the art work outside needs cleaning on painted containers. Patio stones a mess, not being updated or up kept. Some art so old looks like a recycle jammed onto a stick. Should have mosquito traps in park area. I really liked some of the art inside. But, outside needs an update on the trash along the trail and behind the building. The people greeting you should be offering a tour to explain and guide you through. Educate people about the artists their work, not being done. Where are the people? Some people from out of town come in the morning because they have a long trip in afternoon.
Michael B — Google review
Stumbled in by accident and really enjoyed my hour there! Four lovely exhibits (especially the 2018 trashion (trash-fashion) week winning piece!), two staff who told me all about the place and also their kids arts & crafts programs. And free, which always makes galleries a more welcoming place.
Anya P — Google review
We always stop by when we come to visit Stratford for the theatre. Such pride of place. Always something really interesting. We always stay longer than intended and end up meeting and chatting to interesting people and staff.
Say L — Google review
4.6
(1156)
4.5
(186)
Mentioned on 
Garden
Nature & Parks
Parks
Shakespearean Gardens in Stratford is a delightful place to take a leisurely stroll and immerse yourself in nature. Originally featuring only plants mentioned in Shakespeare's plays, the garden now also includes non-Shakespearean flora. Visitors can admire the 65-foot chimney, a remnant of the former woolen mill on site, as well as a charming gazebo and a bust of William Shakespeare. The gardens are conveniently located near the Avon River path and offer free exploration along the riverbank.
I would say Stratford as a hidden Gem, the city is situated alongside the Avon River, lot of things to do - Architectural marvels like Queens Town Hall, Court House the Overall Market place, Theatres and the serene river cruise, on top of that you have multiple small shops for shopping lovers and fine food, ample parking places, Sunday it was free parking, you can also find lot of local farmers selling green vegetables, plants and Bakery items.
Prasun G — Google review
Very well maintained clean and quite park. It’s so relaxing and refreshing to walk through It is far calmer than anticipated and totally worth the visit.
Jois J — Google review
My friend and I had a peaceful walk through these well-maintained gardens. There were some unique flowers, a beautiful bridge over the river and a bust of Shakespeare himself! There was also a replica of his wife's cottage which we unfortunately did not visit. The park however, was not very large so we went through it very quickly. Do not expect to spend a long time here. Still, a wonderful stop on our day trip to Stratford!! 😊👍💜 Big Tip: Park at the Cooper Lot - Municipal Parking at 105 St. Patrick St. It's free all day and it's only a 2 minute walk to the main section of Stratford and a 10 minute walk to this park. 👌
Lorna S — Google review
A lovely, peaceful walk — and just a short distance from the theatres. The gardens are beautifully groomed, filled with charm and quiet detail that reflect the town’s love of art and story. You’ll often find swans gliding near the eastern side, which adds a touch of grace to the already serene setting. It’s not a place to rush through; it’s one to stroll, breathe, and let yourself unwind between shows. Simply put, a beautiful little pocket of calm in Stratford — worth every step.
M K — Google review
Beautifully maintained and a good starting point if you want to go on a good trail as it connects to the TJ Dolan which will take you clear around the west side of the city. In the other direction you can take the trails that lead down towards the Tom Patterson island and the main theatre. Close to the downtown core .
M R — Google review
Shakespearean Gardens is a pretty and quiet place with nice flowers, but the still water nearby had a bad smell; there could also be more in the garden to see and enjoy.
Pawneet N — Google review
Beautiful serene garden. Short walk by the river. Well maintained with public parking 6 mins away. Close to stores and restaurants nearby for a walk in the city.
Sanna B — Google review
Shakespearean Gardens in Stratford is one of the city’s most charming and peaceful spots. It’s beautifully landscaped with flowers, stone paths, and a historic footbridge over the Avon River. The gardens are small but full of character, featuring plants mentioned in Shakespeare’s plays — a nice touch for theatre lovers. It’s ideal for quiet walks, reading, or photography, especially in spring and summer. Parking is nearby, and it’s just a short stroll from downtown. A lovely mix of history, art, and nature.
Miguel R — Google review
4.6
(315)
4.4
(135)
Mentioned on 
Museum
Specialty Museums
The Stratford Perth Museum offers a comprehensive look into the history and culture of the region. Visitors can explore exhibits on the First Nations communities, European settlement, agriculture, and industry. The museum also highlights famous residents like Justin Bieber and the founders of the renowned Stratford Festival. With ever-changing displays featuring Canadian artists, local history, and artisans from Southwestern Ontario, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
My husband and I participated in a summertime poetry soirée gathering here last Saturday, was an amazing event with a great vibe at Perth Museum . I really liked the atmosphere of the Musuem with lots of history of Stratford and perth county to see specially map of the world, We also enjoyed seeing and walking outside the building. Thanks team, we will back!😍
Farah Y — Google review
This museum has a Justin Bieber Collection of artifacts detailing his history growing up in Stratford and his steps to stardom in the early days of his international career. The museum also house vintage cars from the 1920’s and an old printing press. We saw a music show in a
Patrick O — Google review
Super cheap and such a great learning experience! We got to look at the Justin Bieber exhibit, as well as plenty of history on Stratford and Perth. The staff was lovely too!
Lisa C — Google review
This is a lovely local museum and well worth your time. It covers a lot of ground from Stratfords railway history to Justin Bieber via the Second World War. Part of the building is a heritage house that has been nicely preserved. Too often these museums are aimed only at children - but not this one. There are lots of exhibits with clear explanatory panels.
Richard L — Google review
Really fantastic museum! Plenty to see. Till's Marionette exhibit on now. Justin Bieber exhibit ongoing.
Diana T — Google review
As someone from the UK who has loved Justin for 15 years, this was such a highlight of our trip to Toronto & we are so glad we visited!!
Chelsea — Google review
This museum has a lot to convey about Stratford and Perth county. We had a wonderful experience. It's worth a visit.
Hari M — Google review
I always love visiting the museum as there are new exhibits every year. Plus, I love that there's a trail out back and that they have snowshoes that you can borrow in the winter.
Stephanie I — Google review
4275 Huron Road or, 4275 Line 34, Stratford, ON N5A 6S6, Canadahttp://www.stratfordperthmuseum.ca/+1 519-393-5311Tips and more reviews for Stratford Perth Museum
4.8
(2950)
4.7
(539)
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Performing arts theater
Concerts & Shows
Theaters
The Avon Theatre, part of the Stratford Festival, is a historic venue with a classic proscenium stage for plays, musicals, and concerts. Situated along Downie Street, it originally opened as an opera house in 1900. The theatre boasts a charming atmosphere and is well-maintained despite its age. Visitors can also spot Justin Bieber's star outside the theatre where he used to busk before becoming famous.
Saw Anne of Green Gables this past weekend. The interpretation was incredible; keeping in line with the main story but adding a new, modern twist. As well, there were lots of comedic and heartfelt moments. The acting was brilliant and the set perfectly done to reflect each time period. The Avon Theatre is a beautiful theatre, with comfortable seating, washroom facilities that were plentiful and moved quickly. There is also a good-size shop onsite if you are looking for show merchandise.
Tamara H — Google review
The Avon Theatre in Stratford is a charming venue, with a classic look on the outside and a comfortable, welcoming feel inside. The seats are fairly comfortable with the sound and lighting being usually excellent. The location is great too — right in the heart of Stratford, close to shops, cafes, and parking. The staff are friendly and helpful. One thing to note is that the seating can feel a bit tight if the theatre is full, especially in the older sections, as was my case when I went to watch Macbeth there recently. Also, some of the best seats tend to sell out quickly, so it's a good idea to book in advance. Overall, the Avon Theatre is a nice place to enjoy live performances, especially as part of the Stratford Festival. The quality of the performances is first-rate.  As part of the Stratford Festival, the productions are top-tier. The Stratford Shakespeare Festival was launched in 1952 by Tom Patterson, a local journalist. Today, it has grown into one of Canada’s most popular cultural events. His vision was to bring Shakespeare's works to life in the town of Stratford, Ontario, a location that shared its name with the birthplace of William Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon, England. At the time, Stratford was a small town, but Patterson believed that bringing Shakespeare’s works to the town could not only elevate its cultural profile but also serve as an economic boost, drawing tourists from around the world. The idea was somewhat ambitious, given that Stratford was not known for its theater scene at that time. Patterson's vision eventually gained support from several key figures, with local residents rallying behind the project.
Ravindran P — Google review
We watched a beautiful reproduction of the Anne of the green Gables in Avon theatre in downtown Stratford. The venue is great with a beautiful layout. The production was also amazing. Strongly recommend watching Anne of the Green Gables.
Veria H — Google review
First time seeing a show here. Seats I picked were wrong for a tall person like me. Avoid seats over a doorway with a ledge, very tight. Beautiful theater, very nice staff
K G — Google review
Came here for the first time and experienced the Anne of Green Gables play. To me it was just ok. Our first impression of going to Stratford was a pain because this city doesn't have enough parking for the theatres so we spent 20 minutes looking for parking with every lot full. Then rushed to arrive on time. Small issue: this venue lacks having enough washrooms for the amount of people during the 15 minute break. The play itself was mediocre. The actors/actresses were tremendous but this was a very liberal twist on the story of Anne of Green Gables. They added a gay character. Took a shot at the current USA VP. Among some other things I won't mention. To me, politics should stay out of plays unless it's necessary. The story lacked authenticity in the second hour and I wish I just left at half and explored Stratford. 2/5 ⭐⭐
MJG — Google review
Saw Macbeth and Dirty Rotten Scoundrels playing here this season. Superb. All the theatres in Stratford are excellent, with the Avon being no exception. Comfortable seating. Recommend coming here for top quality theatre.
Dr G — Google review
We watched anne of green gables. Loved the production and set. Well executed. The theater is cozy and everything is well managed.
Afsary A — Google review
We came to see Macbeth and I don't think I've ever seen a show with better stagecrafting! The theater was lovely, with a really nice shop and a concession area where you could pre-order for intermission! What a great idea! We'll definitely be back again!
Caryn F — Google review
4.4
(999)
4.2
(732)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Restaurant
Mercer Kitchen | Beer Hall offers a warm and refined setting, serving bistro cuisine made with fresh Canadian produce. The menu, influenced by Chef Ryan O'Donnell's time in Japan, features unique items like grilled whole sardine and karaage fried chicken. For those seeking more familiar options, there are choices like grilled chicken skewers. As part of the bacon and ale trail, they offer a tasting of two types of bacon.
Had one of the best meals for lunch at Mercer Hall. My husband had the burger and I had the Caesar Salad. Our waiter, Heath, was very attentive and even went so far as to find out more information about a specific beer. I have mobility issues and without being asked, the staff very kindly put out a ramp which made it easier for me to access the inside of the restaurant. Great food! Great service! We will definitely be back!
Becky L — Google review
We were in Stratford for our 40th wedding anniversary, to catch some plays, take in the sights, and sample food. This restaurant did not disappoint. We went on a busy evening pre theatre time and the restaurant was bustling. We worried we would not have enough time it was so busy but the service and kitchen were so efficient. We never felt rushed, the service was excellent and the food did not disappoint. We had the Mijikai Maki to start, it was really good. Fish was nice and cool in the centre and the outside was nice and crispy. It was a large roll so perfect to share. I had the Bento box which was equally good, well portioned and presented. My husband had the Buttermilk Fried chicken and he loved it. Really crispy, yet the chicken inside was nice and moist. There were many things on the menu that I found appealing, so next time in Stratford we will be back.
Kathy M — Google review
It was my first visit to Mercer Kitchen with our family of four and we could not have been more thrilled with the experience. We love dining out and love good food, and this restaurant was fantastic. Our server, Ryan, was outstanding... friendly, attentive, kind. The food was fabulous and the ambiance wonderful. It's the perfect place for a leisurely dinner before going to the theatre. I would come back here in a heartbeat.
Marg B — Google review
The coconut curry soup was certainly… unforgettable. Whether that’s a compliment or not, I’ll leave to your imagination. The deep-fried sushi roll was a bold choice—maybe less shocking if you’ve never actually been to Asia. The burger patty was dry enough to pass as jerky, and the seafood rice managed to be both overwhelmingly strong in flavor and utterly forgettable at the same time. But honestly, the food wasn’t the worst part. The real highlight of the evening was sharing my table with what felt like ten thousand flies—apparently part of the restaurant’s patio experience. And while I was busy waving them away, I also had plenty of time to wave at the waitress… who somehow never noticed, no matter how many times I tried. On the bright side, the bearded male server was genuinely kind and attentive—credit where credit is due. If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience, this place certainly delivers… just maybe not in the way you’d hope.
Duke L — Google review
Absolutely a great hotel to stay at for enjoying time in Stratford. Easy walking distance to downtown theatres to see a play and explore the shops. Excellent service from the staff (a big shout out to Emily for being so nice) and really fantastic food. Loved the atmosphere and friendliness. Our deluxe king room was super clean, had a big bar fridge, spacious shower and a very comfortable bed with cushy pillows. Would definitely book a stay here again!
Jo-Ann G — Google review
Great service and food was delicious. The atmosphere in the restaurant was relaxed and upscale but the hit of the experience was the Mercer BLT with egg sandwich….no side dish, just a sandwich …..BUT oh my…the best sandwich my husband has ever had, he said. Well done chef! My coconut noodle dish was also fantastic.
Darlene — Google review
I had high hopes for Mercer Kitchen in Stratford after hearing so many great things, but unfortunately, our experience was deeply disappointing. From the moment we arrived, the lacklustre service set the tone - despite the restaurant being quite empty, our server made no real effort to engage or provide attentive service. As for the food, it was a major letdown. The flavours were unpleasantly bitter, and everything seemed heavily saturated with deep fry oil, leaving it greasy and unappetizing. The quality just didn’t match the hype, and we left feeling unsatisfied and regretful of the visit. Definitely not the experience we were excited for. I rarely leave reviews, but I was compelled to share our disappointment. I’m not looking for an apology from the owner; I simply hope this feedback is taken constructively to improve the overall dining experience. Sadly, I can’t recommend Mercer Kitchen based on our visit.
Jordyn S — Google review
We spent the weekend in Stratford and from many recommendations decided to stop by the Mercer for an early dinner. The staff were extremely friendly and welcoming and our service top notch. The food and drinks were amazing full and flavor and you could tell they take pride in the food they put out. We left with full tummies and a great experience. Stratford your lucky to have such a restaurant you can visit daily. We look forward to one day coming back again!! 5* for sure!!
Mandy — Google review

Top places to eat

4.4
(202)
4.4
(532)
Mentioned on 
expensive
Restaurant
Bijou Restaurant is a contemporary bistro in Stratford, offering a fixed-price French menu and global tapas alongside wines from small-craft vineyards. The restaurant, now under the ownership of Mark and Linda Simone, brings a fresh perspective to classic French cuisine with locally-sourced ingredients. With its chic and modern ambiance, Bijou offers dishes like duck confit poutine and roasted bone marrow with onion jam.
This place has been around for years now and there's good reasons why. The food is amazing and diverse. Their talent in the kitchen is met with its equal behind the bar. Not only is the quality near perfect, it is special. It is one of a very few places I've been that serves venison with the same respect and quality reserved for the finest cuts of beef. They also continue to evolve their menu. They do not stand idly by, waiting to be out done. They adapt and change, welcoming each season with fresh ideas. I've been coming to the Festival for more than a decade now and we've always eaten here when we come, but Bijou alone is reason enough to come to Stratford.
Alexis B — Google review
This is the new Bijou. Doesn't have the same charm as the old one. Food is lovely, cocktails are great. Enjoyed a White Linen with Strawberry Gazpacho soup. Delicious! Grilled octopus, yum. The dessert was a miss. Pannacotta was like rubber. Sad but true. Nice waiter.
Tracey T — Google review
I just had the most AMAZING meal at Stratford’s Bijou Restaurant! The Beet and Peach Salad was delicious (locally sourced ingredients). I had the Grilled Tenderloin (FANTASTIC!!!). My wife had the Seared Scallops with Risotto (PERFECTLY Done!). And ended with the delicious Cannolis Chocolate Cherry desert (YUM!!!). All around a memorable, enjoyable evening in a very cool place. Cheers Bijou! 😀👍👍
Bruce S — Google review
To be fair this is a meat-forward restaurant so I had no business being here as a vegan...but someone else chose it for a post-theatre dinner. The sole entre that could be "veganized" was the mushroom risotto. The sodium levels were through the roof for my palate. Mushrooms were nice but any umami they would have contributed was overpowered by salt. There was just not a lot of tasty excitement going on (maybe some charred broccolini or something could have added depth? Anyway, for $29 I expect a dish to be superb. Not unenjoyable. Super non-alcoholic cocktail, friendly waitstaff and aesthetically pleasing interior. But probably not the best option for a vegan.
Corina ( — Google review
Really enjoyed our dinner and dessert! Strawberry shortcake was amazing, loved the peach 🍑 and beet appetizer! Highly recommend 👌
Liz O — Google review
Super kind and helpful wait staff who are extremely knowledgeable about their menu. And what a menu, incredibly well crafted dishes with intentionally paired both intuitive and unintuitive pairings on plates. A stellar wine selection and great house cocktails. Honestly you can't go wrong here. Well worth the price without a doubt. We had the Spanish octopus over scallop sausage, the deep fried enoki mushrooms, cheese dumplings and the scallops with potatoes. We'd order it all again in a heartbeat if there weren't so many other enticing dishes on offer to try.
Kevin S — Google review
The restaurant was clean. The atmosphere was nice. The wait staff were friendly and attentive. The portion size was small for the price. Our apps were 3 prawns with some melon, and 3 pieces of bread and butter. The presentation of the meal was very good, but the flavour was somewhat lacking for each course. The scallops (5-medium) and risotto was good (served warm). The halibut was well cooked but served cold. The deserts (cannolis and deconstructed strawberry shortcake) were expensive for what was provided and not as good as anticipated. We had high hopes based on the reviews and went after attending the Avon Theatre. Very nice, and friendly place but the food portion size and quality left us wanting more and a bit disappointed. Next visit to Stratford we would try a different restaurant.
Alex D — Google review
We had a marvelous time at Bijou. The dishes had complex flavours and was filling, the décor is beautiful, and the service was excellent. The beet salad as an app was a great choice for us. For mains, we had the pork dish, which was a bit too salty, but the fish dish was cooked in a standard French fare and was scrumptious!
Syn V — Google review
34 Brunswick St Main Level, Stratford, ON N5A 3L8, Canadahttps://www.bijourestaurant.com/+1 519-273-5000Tips and more reviews for Bijou Restaurant
4.4
(999)
4.2
(732)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Restaurant
Mercer Kitchen | Beer Hall offers a warm and refined setting, serving bistro cuisine made with fresh Canadian produce. The menu, influenced by Chef Ryan O'Donnell's time in Japan, features unique items like grilled whole sardine and karaage fried chicken. For those seeking more familiar options, there are choices like grilled chicken skewers. As part of the bacon and ale trail, they offer a tasting of two types of bacon.
Had one of the best meals for lunch at Mercer Hall. My husband had the burger and I had the Caesar Salad. Our waiter, Heath, was very attentive and even went so far as to find out more information about a specific beer. I have mobility issues and without being asked, the staff very kindly put out a ramp which made it easier for me to access the inside of the restaurant. Great food! Great service! We will definitely be back!
Becky L — Google review
We were in Stratford for our 40th wedding anniversary, to catch some plays, take in the sights, and sample food. This restaurant did not disappoint. We went on a busy evening pre theatre time and the restaurant was bustling. We worried we would not have enough time it was so busy but the service and kitchen were so efficient. We never felt rushed, the service was excellent and the food did not disappoint. We had the Mijikai Maki to start, it was really good. Fish was nice and cool in the centre and the outside was nice and crispy. It was a large roll so perfect to share. I had the Bento box which was equally good, well portioned and presented. My husband had the Buttermilk Fried chicken and he loved it. Really crispy, yet the chicken inside was nice and moist. There were many things on the menu that I found appealing, so next time in Stratford we will be back.
Kathy M — Google review
It was my first visit to Mercer Kitchen with our family of four and we could not have been more thrilled with the experience. We love dining out and love good food, and this restaurant was fantastic. Our server, Ryan, was outstanding... friendly, attentive, kind. The food was fabulous and the ambiance wonderful. It's the perfect place for a leisurely dinner before going to the theatre. I would come back here in a heartbeat.
Marg B — Google review
The coconut curry soup was certainly… unforgettable. Whether that’s a compliment or not, I’ll leave to your imagination. The deep-fried sushi roll was a bold choice—maybe less shocking if you’ve never actually been to Asia. The burger patty was dry enough to pass as jerky, and the seafood rice managed to be both overwhelmingly strong in flavor and utterly forgettable at the same time. But honestly, the food wasn’t the worst part. The real highlight of the evening was sharing my table with what felt like ten thousand flies—apparently part of the restaurant’s patio experience. And while I was busy waving them away, I also had plenty of time to wave at the waitress… who somehow never noticed, no matter how many times I tried. On the bright side, the bearded male server was genuinely kind and attentive—credit where credit is due. If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience, this place certainly delivers… just maybe not in the way you’d hope.
Duke L — Google review
Absolutely a great hotel to stay at for enjoying time in Stratford. Easy walking distance to downtown theatres to see a play and explore the shops. Excellent service from the staff (a big shout out to Emily for being so nice) and really fantastic food. Loved the atmosphere and friendliness. Our deluxe king room was super clean, had a big bar fridge, spacious shower and a very comfortable bed with cushy pillows. Would definitely book a stay here again!
Jo-Ann G — Google review
Great service and food was delicious. The atmosphere in the restaurant was relaxed and upscale but the hit of the experience was the Mercer BLT with egg sandwich….no side dish, just a sandwich …..BUT oh my…the best sandwich my husband has ever had, he said. Well done chef! My coconut noodle dish was also fantastic.
Darlene — Google review
I had high hopes for Mercer Kitchen in Stratford after hearing so many great things, but unfortunately, our experience was deeply disappointing. From the moment we arrived, the lacklustre service set the tone - despite the restaurant being quite empty, our server made no real effort to engage or provide attentive service. As for the food, it was a major letdown. The flavours were unpleasantly bitter, and everything seemed heavily saturated with deep fry oil, leaving it greasy and unappetizing. The quality just didn’t match the hype, and we left feeling unsatisfied and regretful of the visit. Definitely not the experience we were excited for. I rarely leave reviews, but I was compelled to share our disappointment. I’m not looking for an apology from the owner; I simply hope this feedback is taken constructively to improve the overall dining experience. Sadly, I can’t recommend Mercer Kitchen based on our visit.
Jordyn S — Google review
We spent the weekend in Stratford and from many recommendations decided to stop by the Mercer for an early dinner. The staff were extremely friendly and welcoming and our service top notch. The food and drinks were amazing full and flavor and you could tell they take pride in the food they put out. We left with full tummies and a great experience. Stratford your lucky to have such a restaurant you can visit daily. We look forward to one day coming back again!! 5* for sure!!
Mandy — Google review
4.2
(738)
3.8
(229)
Mentioned on 
expensive
Restaurant
Revival House is a unique dining destination located in the town of Stratford. Housed in the historic Mackenzie Memorial Gospel Church, which dates back to 1873, this restaurant offers farm-fresh cuisine, craft brews, and wine in a one-of-a-kind setting. The building retains much of its original architecture, with stained-glass windows and an intimate atmosphere.
ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS!! I don’t know where to start. The atmosphere? Gorgeous. The food? To DIE for. the service!? SO friendly, very welcoming, i almost felt like i was talking with a friend! I booked a reservation on the patio for my sister and I, it was everything we had dreamed of. From a beautiful view, amazing architecture and beautiful flowers around, it was just perfect. The food was impeccable. I got the duck, and my sister chose the steak, both were prepared better than what Gordon Ramsay could make, the plating was perfect, our appetizers were delectable. I recommend the crab cakes 110%! Christian, our server was a lovely gentleman. With a contagious smile and so very well spoken, he made my sister and i’s experience go from great to amazing, even perfect. I absolutely recommend coming to Revival House for dinner. Truly an amazing spot.
Lisa C — Google review
We held our wedding at Revival House in September and it could not have been a better venue. The staff were so great, helpful and accommodating. Big thanks especially to Rob and Annie, who were there on the day and Alysha, who help with organising the whole day. We loved that we could hold the whole event from start to finish in the one location. We were able to get ready in their upstairs dining area, have the ceremony and reception in the main hall and cocktail hour in the courtyard patio. The gardens in front of the venue are so beautiful and perfect for photos as well. The food was great and we got so many compliments on the venue specifically from our guests. We had around 65 guests and it was the perfect size for us, not too crowded, but not too big either. There was plenty of parking for guests as well, which was great. The staff also packed everything up for us and we were able to pick it up the next morning, which was amazing. We'd highly recommend Revival House as a wedding venue for anyone wanting to get married in Stratford! Thank you Revival House!
Kate A — Google review
We just happened to find this restaurant in a Google Search and we went for a late brunch. The ambiance of the old church was so cool and the waitress was super friendly and attentive. We only had burgers because it was just a midday meal, but all agreed it was the best burger and fries we have had. So I'm guessing the rest of the food was good as well. Will recommend this to anyone I know going to Stratford.
Roxann H — Google review
I would rate this a 5 star but I wasn't to happy with reserving at 5:30 pm and then they canceled on me and gave me an earlier time 4:30 pm. I had to leave my show earlier to get there because they wanted to cater to a larger group. Overall it was a great experience and I am really happy with the service and atmosphere and they also gave us a complementary dessert for our anniversary. I definitely recommend checking it out.
Juan M — Google review
This restaurant is so beautiful inside and outside. My friend has a delicious egg Benny but my chicken sandwich can have some improvement. Service is super!!! I would come back and I think there are choice of foods.
Kar L — Google review
Excellent food. The usual casual dishes done with a special flair. Very friendly and helpful staff. But the staff seemed overworked and the service is slow. Plan on 2 hours for dinner. We were there on a Sunday early supper when they were not very busy.
Alan C — Google review
We had lunch here before a matinee show. I loved it! The atmosphere was awesome: a decommissioned church turned into a restaurant creates a beautiful dining experience with a warm - yet inspiring - ambiance. Our waiter was Christopher - a friendly and easy-going guy. When my initial beer order was given to me as a half-pint at no charge (because the keg had run out) I was promised another full-pint afterwards with the promise of checking in on me to see if I liked the craft beer. When I said that I would prefer to taste another, he suggested one, brought me a large sampler at no cost, and then took my new order. I had a reasonably-sized Reuben sandwich with fries. The taste of the food was excellent.
Marc B — Google review
We had a great experience at Revival House! We did not have a reservation, and even though they were short staffed, we told them we would wait for a table and we didn't need rushed service, so they sat us on the patio. It was pretty hot but the shade in the patio and all the trees and foliage surrounding made it comfortable. They have great non-alcoholic beer and mocktails selection that are very affordable! We had the beet salad, duck flatbread, and a lamb special, and finished with their insanely delicious creme brulee - all 10/10. Oh and their complimentary rosemary focaccia bread with olive oil and balsamic is incredible. The atmosphere, service, and food quality were all amazing and we cannot wait to come back.
Kathryn R — Google review
70 Brunswick St, Stratford, ON N5A 6V6, Canadahttp://revival.house/+1 519-273-3424Tips and more reviews for Revival House
4.4
(1856)
4.2
(1229)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Italian restaurant
Pazzo Pizzeria is a sleek destination offering gourmet Italian meals, wine, and cocktails. The street-level ristorante provides rustic Italian-inspired cuisine in a contemporary setting overlooking the Avon River. Chef Yva Santini, a Stratford Chefs School alumna, is known for her authentically appealing cuisine that incorporates her own interpretation of Italian culinary traditions with a focus on seasonality and locally sourced ingredients.
I wanted to order a authentic Margarita pizza which was not on the menu, but our attendant— Jay—placed the proper order for me. I also ordered a pizza with a funny weird name that has basil pesto on it. It was super delicious. I can say the food was very good, location was great and the service we received was 5 star. We had a great night here and can recommend it confidently.
Mohsen N — Google review
Just had the most amazing date night with my husband at Pazzo. Avery took amazing care of us and we felt such a personal touch to her service. We shared the Burrata, the Meatballs, and the Consigliere pizza, had 3 drinks each and everything was perfect from the cocktails to the wine, to ensuring that our water glasses were always full. We also had the chocolate mousse for dessert and the bill was still under $200. Absolutely incredible experience. Highly recommend.
Lydia J — Google review
We loved the pizza so much we went twice in two days. They were definitely busier when we went for lunch, but the staff were very attentive and the food was excellent. The presentation of the food and drinks also felt super classy without being very expensive. Highly recommend building your own pizza.
Caryn F — Google review
We had dinner at Pazzo Pizzeria tonight and the food was fantastic! But what truly made the experience memorable was our waiter, Jay. He was incredibly friendly, professional, and a pleasure to talk to. For me, great customer service is just as important as great food—and this restaurant gets full credit for delivering both. Huge thanks to Jay for making our evening even more enjoyable!
Mighat P — Google review
Pazzo Pizzeria is a local favorite, and after visiting, I can see why. The pizzas have that perfect balance of crisp crust, fresh toppings, and rich flavor, while the pastas taste authentically Italian with sauces that feel homemade. They also offer a wide range of drinks to complement the meal, which really rounds out the experience. The restaurant has a warm, inviting atmosphere that adds to the charm, but since it’s quite popular in the area, I’d recommend making a reservation to avoid waiting. Overall, it’s an excellent spot for anyone craving genuine Italian food in a lively yet cozy setting.
G.S P — Google review
Really nice food, chilly oil was amazing and how it is supposed to be. Loved their pizza.
Maninder S — Google review
Everything there was great. The food was nice. Had a non alcoholic wine and wasn't a fan of it but first time trying this wine so... The pizza was also great along with the garlic bread.
Simeon C — Google review
Came with my family and service was super friendly and helpful with choosing what to eat. I really liked the chili oil! Tbh i thought the pasta was just okay and I wasn’t too amazed by the pizza either but service and atmosphere was cool
Al — Google review
70 Ontario St, Stratford, ON N5A 3H2, Canadahttp://pazzo.ca/+1 519-273-6666Tips and more reviews for Pazzo Pizzeria
4.3
(1848)
3.8
(735)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Restaurant
Bentley's Bar Inn & Restaurant is a popular and bustling pub located in Stratford, ON, CA. It offers a wide selection of comfort food and has one of the largest menus in the city. The casual eatery provides an easygoing setting with a pet-friendly outdoor patio where patrons can enjoy cocktails, brews, and global comfort grub. The atmosphere is lively with efficient service and fair prices.
I went to Bentley's Bar for lunch with my family. My family, which is 3 of them, ordered 21 wings which is the large size and one order of the beef and vegetable nachos. I ordered the Gourmet Burger with fries. I am happy to say that the food here was awesome. The order of the wings and nachos is filling enough for 3 to 4 people. The burger that I ordered was amazing and I really liked the bacon in it. Also, the service was really good too! I would definitely want to come here again!
Ev — Google review
The waitress was very good at her job. She was friendly and attentive. The meal was quite good I'd say a 4.5 but not quite a 5. Providing smaller lunch options such as half sandwiches I thought was fabulous. The booths feel awkward to sit in. The table felt too low for the seat and I felt I was sitting on the edge of the seat to reach my food and eat comfortably. I think table and chairs are a better option for my next visit. I'm not short I'd say I'm average height for a female.
Tracey D — Google review
As said before the french onion soup is fantastic and I'm pretty fussy, little more croutons and a little less onion would work well. We were guests last Friday around 6:30 and really impressed with food though pricy and service was great, not hovering but attentive. Probably the only downfall was entitled people that needed to shout, inside voices folks it's not all about you. Loved the free parking, about 5 bucks per car and there were three.
Rob L — Google review
We just ate in the casual restaurant/bar. It was a little noisy but the service was prompt & pleasant. A broad menu with many GF choices. The food was tasty & proportions generous. Great value.
Susan C — Google review
Was very busy and hard to get a server. There seemed to be lots of them, but still had to wait a long time. The manager was walking around and helping, making sure people were looked after. Food was good. Pricey though...tourist town. Not very wheelchair friendly. Seating is packed in.
LYNNE S — Google review
No communication or signs to seat yourself even after making a reservation. Food was mediocre at best. Dry chicken sandwich and burger, fries were cold and soggy. Waitress was attentive and nice, but does not make up for the negative experience.
Michael — Google review
Great patio. Food is always reliably delicious. Good service. Well located in downtown Stratford, with public parking behind the restaurant. We've loved it here for years!
Ingy B — Google review
Today was our third time eating here and it's been much better in the past. My husband's burger was dry because it had been overcooked and both our fries had too many little hard bits. It was kinda pricey for mediocre food. We probably won't be back.
Carolyn — Google review

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