Elgin County’s food scene may draw visitors in, but its craft beverage culture is just as compelling. From vineyard views and refreshing pints by the lake to expertly mixed cocktails and thoughtfully paired plates, the region offers plenty of ways to raise a glass while exploring.
Whether you’re unwinding after a day at the beach in Port Stanley or settling in for an evening out in St. Thomas, Elgin County has a drink, and a dining experience to match the moment.
Here are a few spots to visit depending on what you’re in the mood for.
In the Mood for Wine?
Skye Chase Estate Winery
Where: 45811 Fruit Ridge Line, St Thomas, ON (View Map)
If sipping wine while taking in vineyard views sounds like your kind of afternoon, Skye Chase Estate Winery offers a picturesque place to linger. A newer addition to Southwestern Ontario’s wine scene, the estate sits on rolling countryside just outside St. Thomas, blending a modern tasting experience with the relaxed pace of rural Elgin County.
Wine tasting at Skye Chase invites you to slow down and follow your curiosity. Each flight tells a story of craft and place, highlighting wines that reflect the unique character of Southwestern Ontario. Guided by the knowledgeable team, guests can explore a range of styles while learning about the winery’s approach to winemaking and the evolving wine landscape of the region.
Among the standouts is their refreshing rosé, an easy-sipping wine that feels perfectly suited for warm afternoons. Another delightful surprise is their Wine’d Up Wine Co. peach wine—a fruit-forward, crowd-favourite pour that leans a little sweeter and makes a great bottle to bring home, especially with patio season in mind.
If you’d like to linger a little longer, settle into a seat with a vineyard view and pair your tasting with a few bites from the winery’s restaurant. During our visit, we enjoyed a beautifully plated charcuterie board, featuring thoughtfully selected ingredients that highlight the winery’s commitment to local sourcing. It’s the kind of experience that encourages you to relax, take in the scenery, and savour the flavours of the region—one glass at a time.
In the Mood to Toast with a Cocktail?
SOLO on Main
Where: 187 Main St, Port Stanley, ON (View Map)
When evening rolls around, Elgin County offers several inviting spaces where cocktails take centre stage—perfect for settling in after a day of exploring.
At SOLO on Main in Port Stanley, the experience begins the moment you step into the dining room, where large windows offer views toward the harbour. The setting makes it an ideal place to wind down with dinner and a cocktail while watching the easy rhythm of the port.
The cocktail program leans creative yet approachable, with beautifully balanced drinks that are as visually striking as they are refreshing. One standout is the Sakura Soda, a delicate blend of vodka, fresh lemon juice, and cherry blossom syrup, topped with soda and mint. Finished with a rosebud wrapped in mint, it arrives as a small work of art—light, floral, and refreshing, like spring in a glass.
Two Forks
Where: 295 Bridge St, Port Stanley, ON (View Map)
Just a short stroll away, Two Forks offers another inviting stop for those looking to sip and stay awhile. A Feast On® certified restaurant, the team is committed to sourcing Ontario ingredients and celebrating the flavours of the province, something that carries through both the kitchen and the bar program.
Cocktail lovers will appreciate the restaurant’s impressive list of handcrafted drinks, while wine enthusiasts can explore a thoughtful selection of Ontario wines. For those with a passion for agave spirits, Two Forks also boasts an extensive tequila collection, making it a great spot for tequila and mezcal enthusiasts looking to discover something new or enjoy a well-crafted margarita or spirit-forward cocktail.
During our visit, we opted for the Cold Brew Martini, a smooth and energizing blend that struck the perfect balance between bold coffee notes and a silky finish—an ideal companion to an evening meal.
Two Forks also ensures everyone at the table can join the experience, offering non-alcoholic options and thoughtfully crafted zero-proof drinks that keep things light without sacrificing flavour.
Whether you’re beginning the evening with a cocktail or lingering over dinner and drinks, the welcoming space invites guests to settle in, raise a glass, and enjoy the vibrant dining scene in Port Stanley.
In the Mood to Pair a Cold Craft Beer with Lakeside Views?
Port Stanley Brewing Co.
Where: 191 Carlow Rd, Port Stanley, ON (View Map)
Nothing pairs quite like lake views and a fresh pint, and Port Stanley Brewing Company delivers both. Located in the heart of Port Stanley, this brewery is a special stop not only for its beer but for the character of the space itself. Housed in a beautifully restored historic building that once served as a commercial hub of the village, the brewery blends Port Stanley’s past with the easygoing energy of its present-day waterfront culture.
Inside, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with locals and visitors gathering to enjoy small-batch craft beer just steps from the lake. It’s the kind of place where time slows down—whether you’re popping in after a walk along the harbour or settling in for an afternoon with friends.
For those new to craft beer or simply looking to explore a few styles, a flight tasting is a great way to start. During our visit, we opted for a light flight that offered a balanced introduction to the brewery’s range. The Light Lager was crisp and refreshing with a subtle malt sweetness, while the Helles Lager leaned smooth and bready with a soft, dry finish. The Dunkel Lager brought deeper character, pouring a rich amber with notes of toasted malt, chocolate, and caramel. Rounding out the flight was the Italian Pilsner, bright and clean with floral hops and lively hints of lemongrass and tangerine zest.
While the flight was perfect for exploring, the brewery’s rotating taps showcase a wide range of styles, ensuring there’s something for every palate—from easy-drinking lagers to more hop-forward or robust pours.
If the weather is on your side, grab a seat on the patio, take in the coastal village atmosphere, and enjoy the laid-back rhythm that makes Port Stanley such a beloved destination. With good beer in hand and the lake breeze nearby, it’s easy to see why this stop is a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
In the Mood for Drinks Paired with Great Food
Port Stanley Firehall Market
Where: 218 Joseph St, Port Stanley, ON (View Maps)
Sometimes the best experiences come when food and drink take equal billing, and the Firehall Market in Port Stanley delivers just that.
Set inside the village’s beautifully restored historic fire hall, this lively market brings together a collection of local food vendors, artisans, and gathering spaces under one roof. It’s the kind of place where you can wander from stall to stall, connect with local producers, and take a delicious break while exploring the market’s many offerings.
Visitors can grab a hearty sandwich from Sandra’s Souper Soups & Sandwiches, pick up a sweet treat from Kettle Creek Cookies, or browse the ready-made meals and locally prepared dishes at PS We Cater—perfect if you’re looking to bring a taste of Port Stanley back home with you.
At the centre of it all is The Hydrant Pub, where great beer and good company are always on tap. The pub adds to the welcoming atmosphere of the market and is run by Mike and Sue, along with their black Lab, Norman. Their story is as charming as the village itself. After moving to Port Stanley in 2025 and quickly falling in love with the lakeside community, the couple spotted a Facebook post about running the pub—and just three hours later, they found themselves stepping into the role.
Setting up shop inside the historic Fire Hall Market allowed them to create the cozy gathering place they’d always imagined. Today, The Hydrant serves more than just cold drinks; it captures the spirit of Port Stanley, where locals and visitors alike can pull up a chair, share a pint, and enjoy the friendly energy of the community.
The market also hosts DIY workshops, live music, and special food nights throughout the year, making it worth checking the calendar before planning your visit. Whether you’re browsing the vendors, enjoying a drink at the pub, or stopping in for a quick bite, the Firehall Market offers a lively and welcoming place to connect with local flavours and the people behind them.
Raise a Glass to Elgin County
From vineyard tastings to craft beer patios and cocktail-forward dining rooms, Elgin County’s beverage scene adds another layer to its growing culinary reputation.
Whether you’re exploring the region for a weekend getaway or simply looking for your next favourite spot to unwind, these destinations prove that in Elgin County, great food and great drinks are always within reach.
So go ahead—raise a glass and discover the flavours of Elgin County.
