LCBO Food & Drink Early Summer 2020

ROAD TRIPS

STAY

Sunset Inn is a rustic, lake- side abode that’s perfect for swimming and fishing. Plus, it’s just 10 minutes from downtown. Retreat to Nature’s Harmony Ecolodge, a family-run spot overlooking the Laurentian Mountains and a 45-minute drive from North Bay. Stay in a Mongolian yurt or cozy cottage and explore the surrounding hiking trails and lakes. Duchesnay Falls is easily accessible via a series of well-maintained, family-­ friendly trails. Hike the forested paths alongside 70 metres of waterfalls cascading through the escarpment. Off the Beaten Track tours pairs culinary experiences with the beaches, trails and mountains of the region. Enjoy fondue on a hidden beach or atop a mountain, or tour a local brewery after a guided trek. DO You may have seen this old-school lunch counter in a Hallmark movie. Pop in to North Star Diner Wednesday to Saturday for delish vegan dishes crafted with local ingredients. Inspired by the tradition of the east-coast kitchen party, Raven and Republic serves up Ontario beers, craft cocktails, gastro-pub fare and some of the best live entertainment in town. Located next to Sunset Inn, The White Owl Bistro is lakeside, farm-to-table dining at its best. Ask for Rita; she’ll give you the experience! EAT

North Bay Northern exposure

walleye, perch or northern pike on Lake Nipissing, hiking along the Laurentian Escarp- ment or strolling along the picturesque Main street, there’s so much to do, see and taste in North Bay.

The city of North Bay is nestled atop the Canadian shield and home to breathtaking, majestic rocky scenery and sparkly deep-blue lakes—landscapes made famous by the Group of Seven. Whether you’re up for catching

Drink this Balanced and easy-drinking, New Ontario Brewing’s Bear Runner Blonde Ale ( LCBO 473637, 473 mL, $3.15) is a cooler staple. Look for bready character with caramel notes in a classic, ruby-tinged Scottish Ale ( LCBO 523381, 473 mL, $3.40) from Highlander Brew Co. in nearby South River. Keep an eye out this summer for 137 Rye Pale Ale from Gateway City Brewery (not shown).

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Taprooms New Ontario Brewing Co. ( 1 ) is the oldest brewery in town, serving up craft ales in its bustling taproom since 2015. Check out the brand-new location, a 13,000-square-foot space with daily tours, a patio and a myriad food options from nearby restos.     Hosting drop-in choir nights and early-morning yoga sessions, Gateway City Brewery ( 2 ) has quickly become a community hub since opening in late 2018. Nosh on the all-vegan snacks while playing pinball or foosball. BTW, the beer is vegan too!     Heading downtown? Hit Cecil’s Brewhouse & Kitchen ( 3 ), a hotel turned microbrewery and restaurant.

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GATEWAY CITY BREWERY PHOTO BY SHANNON GRANT; CECIL’S BREWHOUSE & KITCHEN BY NATASHA SNODDON AND EVAN LECHLITNER

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EARLY SUMMER 2020 FOOD & DRINK