Ravine Vineyard Restaurant, Niagara on the Lake, ON
I spent the morning running errands in St. Catharines, while D took a beer tour of the Oast House Brewers. By the time we reconnected it was time for lunch and to start our vineyard tours. Lucky for us, we had been briefed by friend Perry of Stone Road Grille that Ravine Vineyard Restaurant would be just to our liking. No surprise-he was absolutely right.
I loved the homey, farm-style ambience and the food was exceptional.
We perused the menu and could have ordered a half dozens dishes. We loved everything we saw and had a very difficult time making up our minds. Knowing that we had an entire day of nibbling and sipping ahead, we decided on sharing a Margherita pizza. In our opinion, if you want to judge a good kitchen and a great pizza, order this variety. The ingredients are basic and simple but when handled with expertise, the results are divine. The crust was light and crispy but firm enough to support the sparkling tomato sauce and rich bufala cheese. Slivers of fresh basil and a glistening olive oil, crowned the creation. The ingredients literally danced in your mouth and it is not surprising when you study more about the chefs of the establishment. “We are among the few self standing restaurants that bake our own bread, raise our own pigs, grow our own certified organic vegetables while pairing our meals with the guidance and discriminating palate of a wine maker.” We had enjoyed a bottle of their fine Merlot the evening before and took another one home in our specially wrapped case of the best that the region had to offer, so we did not indulge with lunch. Instead we tried another couple of the exceptional craft beer from the region.
Kath’s quote: “Without question, the greatest invention in the history of mankind is beer. Oh, I grant you that the wheel was also a fine invention, but the wheel does not go nearly as well with pizza.” Dave Barry
Love-that is all.