A Taste of Oxford: The Oxford County Culinary and Dining Guide

oxford a taste of

The Oxford County Culinary and Dining Guide

R e s ta u r a n t s F A R M E R S & Ar t i s a n s Inns & B&Bs F a rm e r s ’ M a r k e t s f a i r s & f e s t i va l s

From fine dining to laid-back good eats,

from country inns to B&Bs, Oxford County has so much to choose from.

We are so easy to get to, and hard to leave. Woodstock, located at the junction of highways 401 and 403, sits right in the middle of the county, surrounded by scenic countryside dotted with charming towns and villages.

Explore our Oxford County Cheese Trail, or retreat to the countryside for dinner and a show at the Walters Theatre in their restored 1800’s barn.

Spend the morning enjoying the gallery in the $3-million Woodstock Peace Lighthouse, or hook up with Jed for a guided culinary tour.

If architecture is your passion, book a walk with the local historical society. And if a little gaming is in order, visit the OLG Raceway Slots.

So take a few minutes to browse A TASTE OF OXFORD — and our helpful websites — and make a date to visit!

acknowledgements TOURISM OXFORD PROJECT TEAM Cathy Bingham, Tanya Murray, Jeanne Turner EATDRINK MAGAZINE PROJECT TEAM Chris McDonell, Bryan Lavery, Jane Antoniak, Mike Bell PHOTOGRAPHY Steve Grimes — www.grimesphoto.com — shot the majority of the images for the business profiles Additional Elm Hurst Inn photos by Trish Roberts from Custom Concept Photography — www.customconcept.ca The cover image, created by Chef Eric Boyar of SixThirtyNine, was shot by Emma Smallbone — www.barebonephoto.com Additional images supplied by Tourism Oxford

Elm Hurst Inn & Spa, Ingersoll

oxford a taste of

The Oxford County Culinary and Dining Guide A Tourism Oxford guide from the publishers of

eatdrink magazine

eatdrink.ca Think Global. Read Local.

oxfordfresh.com

580 Bruin Boulevard Woodstock, ON Canada N4V 1E5 (519) 539-9800 Ext. 3355 or 1-866-801-7368

tourismoxford.ca Tourism Oxford gratefully acknowledges financial support by the Ontario Trillium Foundation

An agency of the Government of Ontario.

Relève du gouvernement de l’Ontario.

Copyright © 2013 eatdrink inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction or duplication of any material published in A Taste of Oxford: The Oxford County Culinary & Dining Guide™ is strictly prohibited without the written permission of the Publisher. The views or opinions expressed in the information, content and/or advertisements published in ­A Taste of Oxford™

are solely those of the business(es) and do not necessarily represent those of the Publisher or Tourism Oxford. All information contained in this publication is believed to be accurate at the time of printing, but is subject to change. Neither eatdrink inc. or Tourism Oxford assumes any liability whatsoever for damages or loss arising from errors or omissions. Printed in Canada by Sportswood Printing.

introduction FOUR of Our Friends …

Lynn Ogryzlo

My family has always grown our own food or known where our food came from. It’s a rich lifestyle and in defense of it I wrote The Ontario Table. As I travelled the province, I met farmers as passionate about growing delicious food and raising healthy animals as winemakers have been for generations. In the heart of Ontario lies Oxford County. This is dairy country with beautiful meadows, golden hay fields and an Amish community that gives the region a distinct farm and country culture. Drive through the countryside and discover its hidden treasures like Big Sky Farms’ chickens that lay to classical music or chef Eric Boyar shopping the farmers’ market for his farm-to-table restaurant SixThirtyNine.

Anita Stewart

Oxford County is pure country! It’s the sort of region that you need to dive into with a healthy appetite. Historically, it was the cheddar capital of Upper Canada and today it still has a flourishing dairy industry.

You cannot mention Oxford without talking about the great grain products from Oak Manor, one of the original local food sources I came across in my early eating adventures. From trout to tomatoes, from beef to berries, from maple to melons, the notion of eating from the land is quite possible here. Honest, real, delicious … and in our collective backyards.

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a taste of oxford

www.tourismoxford.ca

Gail Gordon-Oliver

My passion for sustainably grown and raised produce and livestock is one of the reasons I launched Edible Toronto magazine in 2007. Another is my infatuation with seeking out the best artisanal products and specialty foods lovingly produced by dedicated Ontarians. As publisher and editor of Edible Toronto, which focuses on the healthy, safe and sustainable future of our local foodshed and watershed, I’ve been fortunate to savour many such products from bucolic Oxford County, including fragrant honey from John Van Blyderveen’s Oxford Honey, meltingly tender and flavourful Black Bow Farms Berkshire pork raised on Kevin Rivers’s Stonecroft Farms, and the wonderful variety of organic grains milled on Perry Reibling’s Oak Manor Farms.

Rebecca LeHeup

I discovered Oxford County several years ago in my work with the Ontario Culinary Tourism Alliance. It’s a treasure chest of culinary delights! From passionate chefs such as Eric Boyer of SixThirtyNine to artisan producers including Shep Ysselstein of Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese, the region has a delicious taste of place. The dairy capital of Canada has more than cheese to tempt your taste buds. Take a trip — it’s Oxfordlicious!

www.tourismoxford.ca

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contents INTRODUCTION

FARMERS & ARTISANS

4 FOUR of Our Friends

20 Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese 8 22 23 24 25

RESTAURANTS 8 10 12 14 16 17 17 16

Elm Hurst Inn & Spa 1 Niko’s Eatery & Bar 2 Ody’s Restaurant 3

Birtch Farms and Estate Winery 9 Jakeman’s Maple Products 10 Oxford Honey and Supplies 11 and more farmers & artisans ...

24 FARMERS’ MARKETS

SixThirtyNine 4 Crabby Joe’s 5

MAPS

Kelsey’s 6

26 29

Montana’s Cookhouse 7 and more restaurants ...

Buy Local! Oxford Oxford County Cheese Trail

30 FAIRS & FESTIVALS

18 INNs & B&Bs

s

9

5 4 7 6 3

Retailers

10 8

1

11

2

restaurants

Innovative chefs are hungry to create a cuisine based on food full of unique, Oxford flavour!

Niko’s Eatery & Bar, Tillsonburg

www.tourismoxford.ca

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Elm Hurst Inn & Spa

Countless guests have been captivated by Elm Hurst Inn & Spa’s beautiful rural setting and historic architecture, lovingly restored to reflect the charm of years gone by.

Today, the tradition of dining excellence continues, as Executive Chef Michael Davies (above) crafts menus inspired by the bounty of Southwestern Ontario, building a reputation for quality ingredients, professional preparation and beautiful presentation.

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www.tourismoxford.ca

“ Inspired by Tradition”

415 Harris Street, Ingersoll ON N5C 3K1 (at HWY 401 exit 218) Map: 1 GPS: N 43° 01.800 W 80° 51.319 519-485-5321 1-800-561-5321 MON–SAT: 7 am–9 pm SUNDAY: 7 am–8 pm

THE SETTING

Ingersoll’s Elm Hurst Inn & Spa has been an Ontario landmark since 1872 and a dining destination since the historic mansion was transformed into a restaurant more than 30 years ago. Nine lovingly restored private dining rooms, 49 newly-renovated Inn Rooms, and an Aveda Spa make this the perfect spot for a restful night, delicious meal, or romantic getaway.

Reconnect with family and friends over Sunday Brunch or the monthly Seafood Buffet, meet colleagues for a business lunch or conference, or celebrate life’s special occasions in style. The Elm Hurst’s unique reception spaces and setting also make this a popular and preferred Wedding and Conference venue.

www.elmhurstinn.com info@elmhurstinn.com Victorian Mansion Restaurant Complimentary Breakfast, WiFi and Parking Private Dining for 2–60 Spacious Summer Patios Newly Renovated Inn Rooms On-site Aveda Spa Conference Centre Ideal Wedding Venue Innkeeper Alon Gurman (left) has created a number of Culinary and/or Spa Packages for couples or groups, tailored to suit a variety of interests.

See the website for details.

HIGHLIGHTS

Enjoy locally-inspired Modern Cuisine prepared by Executive Chef Michael Davies’ team, who are committed to working with local growers and producers to serve the finest, freshest local produce, cheeses and meats.

Favourites include: • Victorian Ingersoll Cheddar & Upper Canada Ale Soup, prepared with Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese; • Certified Angus Beef Program (Ontario/Canadian Beef), featuring Prime Rib, New York, Filet and Top Sirloin; • Sunday Night Prime Rib and Pasta Bar buffet. www.tourismoxford.ca

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Niko’s Eatery & Bar

Niko’s Eatery & Bar

is upscale with value-oriented prices. Owners Chris Kyriakopoulos and his wife Leesa have successfully met their goal of presenting “a taste for everyone.”

Executive Chef Brian Rocco (below) offers traditional Greek favourites and familiar “comfort food” items — such as Caesar Salad, a New York Steak or Fish & Chips — as well as items for those interested in sampling the more daring flavours of the world, such as Avocado Spring Rolls (with a spicy Thai chili sesame dip) or Braised Lamb Shank (with a natural reduction, creamy baby spinach and mushroom risotto).

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www.tourismoxford.ca

“ A Taste for Everyone” EATERY & BAR

102-108 Broadway Street, Tillsonburg ON N4G 3P6 (South of King) Map: 2 GPS: N 42° 51.600 W 80° 43.628 519-668-9393 MON–SAT: 11 am–10 pm SUNDAY: 10 am–3 pm

www.nikoseatery.com information@nikoseatery.com

THE SETTING

Locally-Inspired Seasonal Menus Children’s Menu Senior’s Menu Sunday Brunch Gluten-Free & Vegetarian Items Full Service Catering Available Live Jazz Evenings Private Bookings Available

Tucked into the southernmost tip of Oxford County, Tillsonburg is home to one of the region’s top dining destinations. From its curb appeal to its minimalist but visually intriguing interior, Niko’s impresses with big-city style and small-town hospitality. Built in 2006, the location has A chic urban ambiance in been nominated for three provincial charming Tillsonburg meets an awards for design and workmaneclectic well-executed menu of ship. Walls constructed of wine traditional and creatively unique bottles, a waterfall, stainless steel menu items, supported by and molded copper, with contemfriendly knowledgeable servers porary light fixtures, seating options, and thoughtful touches compliment the semi-open kitchen and the inviting flow of the dining room.

HIGHLIGHTS

Executive Chef Brian Rocco demonstrates a passion for creating unique dishes that satisfy the pallet and the eye. His use of fresh herbs and spices is integral to his philosophy — “Simplicity & Fusion” — that embraces the use of local products while trying to Mango Salmon, with coconut and cilantro eliminate continental boundaries. basmati rice, pineapple Traditional Greek favourites such and micro green salad as the Spanikopita Dinner can be found among the classic entrées, including flame-broiled burgers and prime rib au jus. Or try the spicy Smoked Chicken & Chorizo Rotini or a tropical taste in the Mango Salmon.

All desserts are made in-house and Niko’s also features one of the largest assortment and inventories of VQA and quality international wines in the area. www.tourismoxford.ca

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Ody’s Restaurant Quality Hotel & Suites Convention Centre

Executive Chef William McNamara (left) oversees the busy kitchen at Ody’s Restaurant and Woodstock’s full-service Quality Hotel & Suites Convention Centre.

Supporting Chef’s interest in the local food movement are Food and Beverage Manager Debra Stinson (centre) and Ifhan Hudda, General Manager of Quality Hotel & Suites Convention Centre.

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www.tourismoxford.ca

“ The Perfect “ The Business Address”

’ S Y D O

R estaurant, Lounge & Patio

580 Bruin Boulevard, Woodstock ON N4V 1E5 (just north of HWY 401) Map: 3 GPS: N 43° 06.769 W 80° 44.299 519-537-2478 1-800-667-4466 OPEN DAILY 6:30 am to 11 pm www.wqhas.com sales@wqhas.com

THE SETTING

Conveniently located near High­ way 401, the Quality Hotel & Suites Convention Centre offers all the amenities a traveller might be looking for. Ody’s Restaurant, Lounge & Patio is perfect for a casual dinner meeting, or relaxing with a cold beverage on Woodstock’s largest licensed patio. Enjoy their popular munchies while playing a game of pool or catching the game on a big screen TV.

Full-Service Hotel with Deluxe Rooms & Specialty Suites Flexible Banquet & Meeting Space for up to 360 people Business Centre & Free WiFi Sunday Brunch Buffet Children’s Menu Room & Meal Packages Gift Certificates Available 10oz New York Steak topped with Portobella Mushrooms & Pearl Onion Jus, with a twicebaked Potato & Vegetables

HIGHLIGHTS

Ody’s serves a variety of freshly prepared specialties for breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week. The family-friendly menu contains a wide assortment of great tasting selections from an à la carte menu, along with a generous variety of items on their assorted buffets.

Ody’s has received the Outstanding Food Service Award by the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce, and Executive Chef William McNamara is committed to supporting the Oxford Fresh local food movement, which is incorporated into such items as the Asian Stir-Fry or the Chicken Scallopini.

A Hot Breakfast is served daily, ranging from the filling Trucker’s Special to light “Heart Smart” choices. All-Day Breakfast is offered Thursday to Sunday.

Other suggestions include Steak Night on Mondays, an outstanding Dinner Buffet most evenings, and a delicious Sunday Brunch. www.tourismoxford.ca

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SixThirtyNine SixThirtyNine

is a stellar 28-seat Woodstock restaurant, renowned for its ever-changing seasonal menus of locally-sourced ingredients. Since 2005, Co-Owner/Chef Eric Boyar (below, front) has operated this landmark Oxford County establishment with his mother and Co-Owner Pauline Bucek (seated, right). Other staff members shown (left to right) are Mary Beth Start, Server; Brock Skevington, Entremetier; Jonathan Brown, Sous Chef; and Jennifer Boyar, Server and wife of Eric.

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www.tourismoxford.ca

“ Casual Fine Dining” 639 Peel Street, Woodstock ON N4S 1K9 (at Young Street) Map: 4 GPS: N 43° 07.810 W 80° 44.994 519-536-9602 WED–FRI: 11 am–2 pm 4:30 pm–10 pm SATURDAY: 4:30 pm–10 pm SUNDAY: 4:30 pm–8:30 pm The Chef’s Table

THE SETTING

The heart of home doesn’t just ­flavour the classic cuisine of SixThirtyNine, it lives in the very brick and mortar of the place. The building, once Chef Eric Boyar’s family home, is now a casual and modern restaurant. The pièce de résistance for serious diners is the Chef’s Table — four seats that put patrons right into the action — allowing an open view of the kitchen and Chef’s special tastings and attention. The restaurant also has a comfortable bar area and a relaxing patio for warm summer evenings.

www.sixthirtynine.com info@sixthirtynine.com Fresh and Local Menus Change Seasonally Chef’s Table & Tasting Menus Upon Request Available for Special Occasions & Business Functions Free Parking Craft Beer & VQA wine parings Reservations Recommended Left, Icewine-cured Foie Gras Torchon with caraway pickled carrots, carrot jelly, sheep milk crème fraiche, sorrel, bee’s pollen and toasted focaccia

HIGHLIGHTS

Chef Boyar’s passion for fresh, local ingredients inspires the seasonal menu at SixThirtyNine. His impressive technique, rooted in classical French cuisine, was honed in such Toronto hot spots as Crush, Splendido, Mistura, Goldfish and The Metropolitan Hotel. Chef returned to his Oxford County home and opened SixThirtyNine in 2005. A Top 30 Under 30 winner from the Ontario Hostelry Institute, for the past three years Chef Boyar has also represented Oxford Fresh for the prestigious Ontario Premier’s tasting events at Queen’s Park.

With a firm commitment to supporting local producers, seasonally limited or difficult-to-source ingredients become daily specials, so surprises await. Sample exquisitely executed dishes such as: • Pulled Berkshire Pork and Five Brothers cheese croquettes with Spring-fed Rainbow Trout with apple celeriac quince butter, pickled pearl onions, purée, pickled pearl onions, fingerling potatoes, Brussels sprout leaves, oyster maple vidal grainy mustard and mushrooms and organic organic mustard cress; sprouts with empire • Roasted Ontario Lamb Leg, apple cider vinaigrette spiced sausage, braised shoulder ravioli with delicata squash, creamed cabbage & red wine lamb jus; • Smoked Potato Gnocchi with toasted walnuts, hedgehog mush­ rooms, raisins, parsley root & sauce; • Strawberry Soufflé with Grand Marnier macerated strawberries and strawberry ice cream. www.tourismoxford.ca

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Crabby Joe’s Tap & Grill 409 Dundas Street, Woodstock ON N4S 1B8 (West of County Rd 59) Map: 5 GPS: N 43° 07.782 W 80° 45.581 519-539-4946 MON–SAT 11 am–2 am SUNDAY 11 am–1 am woodstock@crabbyjoes.com www.crabbyjoes.com/ locations-woodstock.php Half-Price Apps after 9 pm Tuesday 39¢ Wings Friday Marvelous Martinis $4, Sunday Kids 12 & under Eat Free Take-Out Menu Available 7 Minutes from 401 Exit 232

Good Food ... Good Fun ...

Bad Temper! A vast selection of reasonably priced food and drinks — lunch, dinner, and after-dinner — offers something for everyone.

more restaurants ...

Boston Pizza

You’re among friends at Boston Pizza Restaurant & Sports Bar! Over 100 menu items & a great selection of pizza, pasta, ribs & more. Dine in, takeout, delivery. Open late every night.

431 Norwich Ave, Woodstock, ON N4S 3W4 519-536-7800 • www.bostonpizza.com GPS: N 43° 7.056 W 80° 44.279

The Bridges at Tillsonburg

Tasty homemade meals by award-winning Chef using local suppliers. Best views in town from huge patio. Open daily.

Full menu. Sunday Brunch. Catering. Bus parking.

101 John Pound Road, Tillsonburg ON N4G 4H3 519-842-4142 • www.thebridgesattillsonburg.com GPS: N 42° 51.049 W 80° 43.787

Charles Dickens Pub

Dine in authentic English pub atmosphere. Independently owned and operated by a British family. Traditional British and pub fare, with 20 domestic and imported drafts on tap.

505 Dundas St., Woodstock ON N4S 1C3 519-421-2218 • www.charlesdickenspub.com GPS: N 43° 07.814 W 80° 45.356 16 a taste of oxford

Chiba Sushi Japanese Restaurant

Enjoy high quality sushi at this lovely all-you-can-eat Japanese restaurant. Dishes have a very fresh taste with wonderful combinations of flavours in every bite!

925 Dundas St., Unit 1, Woodstock ON N4S 8V3 519-539-8988 • www.chibasushi.ca GPS: N 43° 08.004 W 80° 44.027

Dairy Capital Cheese Shoppe

A unique Food & Gift Shop. Restaurant, gourmet food, Canadian & world cheeses. Gluten-free foods. Outdoor patio on Museum Square, Downtown Woodstock.

474 Dundas St., Woodstock ON N4S 1C4 519-537-7623 • www.dairycapitalcheese.ca GPS: N 43° 07.802 W 80° 45.427

Dean Michael’s Griddlehouse

Californian-style décor. With specialty breakfasts & lunches – over 70 unique items— with all-day omelettes, eggs, pancakes, crepes, waffles, reubens, westerns. Kid’s Menu. 7 am–3 pm daily.

594746 County 59 Rd. S., RR4, Woodstock ON N4S 7V8 519-456-5064 • www.deanmichaels.ca GPS: N 43° 06.292 W 80° 43.778 www.tourismoxford.ca

Kelsey’s

Come in and feel at home at Kelsey’s

Your Neighbourhood Bar & Grill 525 Norwich Avenue, Woodstock ON N4V 1E6 Map: 6 GPS: N 43° 6.549 W 80° 44.128 519-421-7300 MON–WED 11 am–11 pm THURS–SAT 11 am–Midnight SUNDAY Noon–11 pm

www.kelseys.ca

Montana’s Cookhouse Great-Tasting Homestyle Meals 511 Norwich Avenue, Woodstock ON N4S 9A2 Map: 7 GPS: N 43° 6.910 W 80° 44.256 519-537-3117 SUN–TUES 11:30 am–10 pm WED–SAT 11:30 am–11 pm Escape to the Lodge www.montanas.ca

Olympic Restaurant

Family-owned Greek restaurant has hearty breakfasts, homemade soups, daily specials and one of the best Greek Salads around. Craving Greek food? Try the Souvlaki. Opa! 559 Dundas St., Woodstock ON N4S 1C6 T: 519-537-2711 • kouvli1@hotmail.com GPS: N 43° 07.833 W 80° 45.225

Walters Dinner Theatre

Spend a memorable day at the picture perfect Walters Family Ranch. Enjoy the famous Country Dinner Buffet & a music or theatre production in the beautiful barn theatre.

836074 Hubbard Rd. R.R. #3 Bright ON N0J 1B0 519-463-5559 • www.walterstheatre.com GPS: N 43° 14.793 W 80° 37.509

Quehl’s Restaurant & Catering

Comfort food at its best! We care enough to use only the freshest ingredients from local farmers. Daily breakfast, lunch & dinner. Ice-cream Shop, Fresh baking & home-made pies, just like mother made!

33 Woodstock St., S., Tavistock ON N0B 2R0 519-655-2835 • www.quehlsrestaurant.com GPS: N 43° 19.214 W 80° 50.213

TA Travel Centres Canada

Featuring home-style country cooking 24 hours 7 days a week. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Buffets. Stocked convenience store, gifts, souvenirs and the lowest gas prices around. Lots of room, buses welcome.

535 Mill St., Woodstock ON N4S 7V6 519-421-3144 / 1-877-757-2743 • tatravelcenters.com GPS: N 43° 06.187 W 80° 45.490 www.tourismoxford.ca

Oxfordlicious kicks off the peak local food harvest month in Oxford.

Celebrated during the entire month of September, local chefs and local producers are showcased.

Keep an eye on

www.oxfordfresh.com

for details as they are confirmed.

Bring your basket. Bring your cooler.

And most of all, bring your appetite for fresh and local!

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inns & b&bs Comfort Inn & Suites

98 spacious room hotel. Enjoy the new hot or continental breakfast, workout in the fitness room, access high-speed wireless internet & cool off in the indoor pool & whirlpool.

20 Samnah Cres., Ingersoll ON N5C 3J7 519-425-1100 • www.choicehotels.ca/cn783 GPS: N 43° 00.973 W 80° 52.620

Econo Lodge

Welcome, enjoy your stay at newly opened Econolodge in the heart of Woodstock. 50 rooms, free continental breakfast. Each room has: fridge, coffeemaker, microwave and free internet. Honeymoon suite available.

15 Graham St., Woodstock ON N4S 6J5 519-533-6066 • www.woodstockhotel.ca GPS: N 43° 07.821 W 80° 45.534

Elm Hurst Inn & Spa

Inspired by tradition since 1872. Newlyrenovated Inn Rooms. Private Dining.

Aveda Spa. Walking Trail. Retreats. Golf, Spa & Dining pkg’s. Music & Art Shows, Free WIFI. 30 min. to Stratford & London.

415 Harris St., Ingersoll ON N5C 3K1 1-800-561-5321 • www.elmhurstinn.com GPS: N 43° 01.800 W 80° 51.319

Hawthorn Valley Farm B&B

A small family-owned conservation area, featuring a unique B&B with private guest house, beautiful vistas, recreation and environmental education opportunities.

312555 Dereham Line, R.R. #3, Tillsonburg ON N4G 4G8 519-842-9261 • www.hawthornvalleyfarm.com GPS: N 42° 53.668 W 80° 48.209

Holiday Inn Express & Suites

Woodstock’s newest hotel offers a fresh, uncomplicated stay. Relax in the indoor pool with a water slide or work out in the fitness centre. Enjoy the free Express Start™ hot breakfast bar. Free WiFi. 510 Norwich Ave., Woodstock, ON N4S 3W5 1-877-660-8550 • www.hiexwoodstock.com GPS: N 43° 06.883 W 80° 44.246

Just For You B&B

Elegant Country B&B. All en-suite private bathrooms & private entrance. Garden views, hot-tub, pool, sauna, game room, BBQ, fireplace, WiFi. Full Breakfast. Minutes from London, Woodstock & Stratford.

6325 Dundas St., Thamesford ON N0M 2M0 1-888-221-4650 • www.bbjust4ucanada.com GPS: N 43° 02.588 W 81° 02.358

Microtel Inn & Suites

New 74 rooms. Convenient to Hwy 401.

A better place to stay at an economy price with an indoor pool, Jacuzzi suites, free internet & complimentary continental breakfast.

811 Athlone Ave., Woodstock ON N4V 0B6 519-537-2320 / 1-800-707-2147 • microtelwoodstock.ca GPS: N 43° 06.783 W 80° 44.586

Quality Hotel & Suites Convention Centre

Woodstock’s only full service hotel provides all guests with a complimentary hot buffet breakfast, complimentary use of a 14,000-square-foot fitness facility, and complimentary high-speed internet access.

580 Bruin Blvd., Woodstock ON N4V 1E5 519-537-5586 / 1-800-667-4466 • www.wqhas.com GPS: N 43° 06.769 W 80° 44.299

The Little Gallery B&B

This European-inspired B&B is also a gallery of fine art and antiques. Hosts Ron & Martha Hofstetter welcome guests to their unique home. Generous continental breakfast.

58 Washington St., R.R. #4 Bright, ON N0J 1B0 519-684-6895 • marthas.art@sympatico.ca GPS: N 43° 19.954 W 80° 35.371

Zeelandia B&B

A country get away providing Dutch hospitality, WI-FI, three rooms, private baths, and hot breakfast. This family-friendly B&B is only 5 minutes from Hwy 401.

405229 Beaconsfield Rd., RR2, Burgessville ON N0J 1C0 1-866-424-9586 • www.bbcanada.com/zeelandiabb GPS: N 43° 02.140 W 80° 40.456

Howard Johnson Tillsonburg

A quiet getaway with 59 well-appointed and affordable guest rooms with fridge, microwave & coffee maker in each room. Free WiFi. Free Continental Breakfast. New Spa. 92 Simcoe St., Tillsonburg ON N4G 2J1 519-842-7366 / 1-866-942-7366 • hojotillsonburg.ca GPS: N 42° 51.548 W 80° 42.722

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www.tourismoxford.ca

farmers & artisans

Oxford County is not only Canada’s Dairy Capital. Creative local producers are providing a wide range of food and drink for authentic tastes of Oxford!

Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese, Woodstock

www.tourismoxford.ca

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Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese

Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese

is the fulfillment of Shep Ysselstein’s dream to build a life in the Oxford County dairy business. Using the high-quality milk from his family’s dairy herd next door, he utilizes techniques honed by working in the Swiss Alps to create three unique new cheeses. Whether you are looking for a day in a scenic setting, want to watch and learn about cheese making, or just want to buy some outstanding cheese, visit Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese.

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www.tourismoxford.ca

“ Swiss Quality Cheese, Crafted Right Here” 445172 Gunns Hill Road,

SWISS QUALITY Woodstock ON N4S 7V8 CHEESE, (Just south of Woodstock) CRAFTED RIGHT Map: 8 HERE.

GPS: N 43° 03.756 W 80° 41.557

519-424-4024 April–December TUES–SAT: 9 am–5 pm January–March WED–SAT: 10 am–4 pm * Regular Hours for March Break

www.gunnshillcheese.ca Come Experience Our World info@gunnshillcheese.ca

THE SETTING

Visit our cheese shop and sample our delicious unique handmade cheeses

This small-scale artisan cheese Several Unique Cheeses, Fresh and Aged plant is located within the Watch cheese being Available in Wheels or cutand to learn crafted heart of the Dairy Capital of about order in smaller sizesthe traditiona Canada and is only minutes techniques Retail and Wholesale away from downtown Gift Baskets Available Woodstock. The milk used Relax and Cheese Trays Made Fresh to enjoy th to create the cheeses comes stunning scenery on our 3 generation Order from the neighbouring family family farm Group and School Tours dairy farm, Friesvale Farms, Be a Cheese Maker for a Day! where the finest Canadian milk Book a group or school tour is produced. The cheese is the result of years of dreaming and Become a cheese Maker Shep Ysselstein makerCheese for a day! planning by owner, operator hand-crafts three unique and and cheesemaker Shep original Swiss-style Oxford Ysselstein. While the cheeses County cheeses produced at Gunn’s Hill gunnshillcheese.ca Artisan Cheese are truly unique, you can taste a Swiss influence from techniques and recipes Shep learned while making cheese in the Swiss Alps. To ensure cheeses of top quality and taste, they are hand-crafted using traditional cheesemaking methods.

THE CHEESE

Three varieties of washed rind cow’s milk (from the family farm) Swiss-inspired cheese are offered: • Oxford’s Harvest is soft and mild. Aged six weeks; • Five Brothers is creamy and rich with sweeter overtones and distinctive eyes throughout the body of the cheese. Aged eight months; • Handeck is a firm cheese with a balance of buttery and nutty flavours. Aged one year. www.tourismoxford.ca

a taste of oxford 21

Birtch Farms and Estate Winery 655514 15th Line, RR 7, Woodstock ON N4S 7W2 (Northeast of Woodstock) Map: 9 GPS: N 43° 11.356 W 80° 44.040 519-469-3040 Please go to the website for current hours, or phone www.birtchfarms.com info@birtchfarms.com Large Selection of Fruit Wines, Ice Wines & Sparkling Ciders Farm Fresh Bakery Lunch Cafe Children’s Playground Pick-Your-Own Apples & Pumpkins in season Online Store Special Events & Activities • Apple Festival — 2nd weekend after Labour day • Local Flavours Food and Wine Event — last Sunday in September • Pumpkin Festival — 2nd weekend after Thanksgiving

A UNIQUE COUNTRY EXPERIENCE

Birtch Farms is located in a beautiful country setting, offering various experiences such as apple picking in the orchard and pumpkin picking in an ­authentic pumpkin patch, and a small corn maze. The well-established winery features fruit wines made from locally grown products, with gift

baskets, tours and tastings.

The Farm Fresh Bakery offers delicious pies made with many different Ontario fruits ­— especially apple, of course! Or enjoy the famous apple fritters, butter tarts, cupcakes, cookies and more. The Lunch Cafe features comfort food options such as Sweet Potato apple soup, grilled apple cheddar paninis, pizza, sausage and hot dogs.

Make your own scarecrow in the “Scarecrow Nursery” and take it home with you, and explore the children’s playground with pedal karts, slides and more,

Farm Fresh Bakery

The Apple Orchard

DELICIOUS FRUIT WINES

Birtch Farms offers a wide variety of high quality fruit wines, ice wines, and non-alcoholic sparkling ciders, such as: • Apples ‘n’ Spice Wine, semi-sweet and reminiscent of an oldfashioned mulled cider; • Raspberry Ice, a sweet dessert wine with highly concentrated fresh fruit flavour; • Apple-Strawberry-Rhubarb Sparkling Cider, bubbly, flavourful and semi-sweet.

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www.tourismoxford.ca

Jakeman’s Maple Products S I NC E

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454414 Trillium Line, RR1 Beachville ON N0J 1A0 (South of HWY 401) Map: 10 GPS: N 43° 3.849 W 80° 46.565 519-539-1366

A SWEET TRADITION

MON–FRI: 8 am–4:30 pm SATURDAY: 10 am–4 pm

www.themaplestore.com Since 1876, the Jakeman Family has info@themaplestore.com made maple syrup in the gently rolling hills of Oxford County. The first years were tough and life was hard but they Maple Meals in season learned quickly from their First Nations Coffee & Light Snack Stop neighbours about the wonderful sweet Buses Welcome liquid from the maple trees. The sap 5 minutes off HWY 401, was collected and boiled in kettles and across from Trillium Woods pans to a thick golden Provincial Park syrup. Today, the fifth Exclusive Gift Experience generation of Jakemans Heritage Museum Guided Tours and Talks remain the stewards of the forests and the art of the ancient process remains dear. Maple syrup making is a proud art form and the Jakemans bottle with much love and care.

Maple syrup basics have not changed much over the years; sap is still collected in buckets, although now through tubing systems. The Jakemans still boil the sap to give it its colour and flavour, but they now remove much of the water through reverse osmosis prior to boiling. After boiling, instead of cloth filtering, they VOTED use a filter press, similar to the process of making wine or beer.

Best Tasting

NATURALLY ORGANIC

Maple syrup is naturally organic and is difficult to produce otherwise.

Nowhere in the process is there a use for, or exposure to, any types of chemicals. Trees grow and propagate naturally in a woodlot setting. No pesticides or farming processes are needed to assist Mother Nature. The “Certified Organic” products are not processed any differently than non-certified brands. The only difference between all 100% Maple Syrup brands is the processing quality and consistency. At Jakeman’s, they use the supply from their own trees and producer partners and process all supplies in the same exact way, year after year.

Customers are guaranteed the same superior quality and taste from every batch. www.tourismoxford.ca

Maple Syrup In Canada in a National blind taste test ... Twice!

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Oxford Honey and Supplies 385296 Oxford County Rd 59, Burgessville ON N0J 1C0 (South of Woodstock) Map: 11 GPS: N 43° 01.287 W 80° 39.711 519-550-1096 TUES–FRI 9 am–5 pm SAT 9 am–Noon (Winter Hours: 9 am–3 pm) van3301@rogers.com Bee Observatory: All Summer Bee Demonstrations: Every Saturday at 11 am in June, July & August Sales of: Liquid Honey, Creamed Honey, Pollen, Beeswax, Beeswax Candles, Beeswax Cosmetics, Bees and Beekeeping Supplies

Safely watch bees work their magic and pick up some of the excellent bee products made by the very bees you have become familiar with.

farmers’ markets Downtown Woodstock Farmers’ Market May 16 to October 10: Thursdays 12 noon–5 pm Visit this vibrant outdoor local market in the heart of downtown on Museum/Market Square. Featuring fresh fruit, veggies, eggs, meat, dairy, baked goods, flowers, plants, artisans, crafts and so much more.

Museum Square & Dundas St., Woodstock ON 519-537-5721 • www.downtownwoodstock.ca GPS: N 43° 07.771 W 80° 45.437

Woodstock Fairgrounds Saturday Farmers’ Market Open Year Round: Saturdays 7 am–12 noon This bustling Saturday morning market has a European flair, and features local produce fresh from the farm and green­house. You will find: dairy products, baked goods, meats & fish, maple syrup, honey, chocolate, flowers, crafts and more.

Woodstock Fairgrounds • 875 Nellis Street, Woodstock ON N4S 4C6 519-539-7082 • www.woodstockfairgrounds.com GPS: N 43° 08.040 W 80° 44.427

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www.tourismoxford.ca

more farmers & artisans ...

Aarden Farms Ltd.

Fresh seasonal food at its best! Sweet corn, tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, potatoes, pumpkins, squash, watermelons & cantaloupe.

196709 19th Line, R.R. #1 Lakeside ON N0M 2G0 519-349-2406 • aardenfarms@quadro.net GPS: N 43° 10.786 W 81° 03.145

Berrylicious Fruit Farm

Luscious fresh blueberries & elderberries! (Frozen available year round.) In the fall find Pie Pumpkins, Carving pumpkins, Gourds, Indian Corn, straw & more.

425533 Substation Rd., Burgessville ON N0J 1C0 519-424-3147 • colcuc@silomail.com GPS: N 43° 3.426 W 080° 38.707

Coyle’s Country Store

Discover a unique store in a beautiful country setting for fresh roasted nuts, delicious baking supplies and quality giftware. Tiffany lamps, home décor and collectibles at incredible prices.

244282 Airport Rd. Hwy 19, RR7, Tillsonburg ON N4G 4H1 519-842-5945 / 1-800-559-7350 • coylescountrystore.com GPS: N 42°55.087 W 80°45.711

Godelie Family Farm

We grow a small variety of crops to ensure superior quality for our valued customers. We sell only what we grow — strawberries, sweet corn, potatoes, pumpkins & more.

225754 Otterville Rd. (at Hwy 59), RR1, Otterville ON N0J 1R0 519-879-6562 • garygodelie@sympatico.ca GPS: N 42° 55.757 W 80° 34.781

Leaping Deer

Adventure Farm & Market Country Store with unique atmosphere. Bakery, Green Room Café, gifts & toys, sweet corn, Pumpkin Patch, Corn Maze, Agricultural Museum. Motorcoaches Welcome.

544212 Clarke Rd., Ingersoll, ON N5C 3J8 519-485-4795 • www.leapingdeer.com GPS: N 43° 03.086 W 80° 50.044

Norwich Packers (Norpac)

100% Ontario beef, sold to the finest steakhouses, retail stores & butcher shops. The Norpac Family Farmed Program is antibiotic- & hormone-free. AAA Steaks. Retail store on site.

11 Robson St., Norwich ON N0J 1P0 519-468-3617 / 1-800-265-5410 • norpacbeef.com GPS: N 42° 58.710 W 80° 35.808

Oak Manor Farms

A major player in the organic food industry; manufacturer, packager and marketer of a variety of stone-ground flours, hot cereals, whole kernels & seeds. Store open on site.

756907 Oxford Rd. 5, R.R. #1, Tavistock ON N0B 2R0 519-662-2385 • www.oakmanorfarms.ca GPS: N 43° 19.384 W 80° 44.155

www.tourismoxford.ca

Picard’s Peanuts

Home of the Ontario Peanut. Also chip nuts, chocolates, gift baskets available all year. Open daily, call for hours.

876 Dundas St., Woodstock ON N4S 1G7 519-539-3679 • picardpeanuts.ca GPS: N 43° 07.947 W 80° 44.313

Quality Sheep Milk

This family farm milks 350 dairy sheep to create their own Greek Style Yogurt. Soon to launch sheep milk “cheddar” & Greek-style “feta” cheese. Available at Village Cheese Mill.

383747 Salford Rd., R.R. # 1 Salford, ON N0J 1W0 519-485-5405 • www.qualitysheepmilk.com GPS: N 42° 59.668 W 80° 50.911

Simple Food By Jed

TV personality Chef Jed Lau leads specialized culinary tours to Oxford County farms, kitchens, dining rooms, shops & markets. Groups or busloads are welcome, by appointment.

519-788-2143 • www.simplycookingwithjed.com

Snyder’s Family Farm

Visit the huge pumpkin patch with over 14 attractions, a corn maze, haunted house, petting zoo, hayride & more. Famous apple fritters & deep-fried pumpkin pie. Sept & Oct. 936685 Blenheim Rd., (S. of New Dundee) Bright ON N0J 1B0 519-632-7356 • www.snydersfamilyfarm.com GPS: N 43° 18.867 W 80° 32.206

Turner’s Farm Market

From May to December 24th, shop local for tasty fruits and vegetables, cheese, jams, preserves, pies and pastries. Also offering seasonal plants, flowers, corn, pumpkins and more.

683655 Highway 2, R.R. # 2, Ingersoll, ON N5C 3J5 519-425-0513 • turnersfarmmarket@gmail.com GPS: N 43° 4.555 W 80° 57.001

Van Dyk’s Greenhouses

Large variety of vegetable transplants, specializing in hard to find hot peppers (26 hot & 10 sweet), 20 varieties of tomatoes. No pesticides. Customized orders.

1311 Dundas St., Woodstock, ON N4S 7V9 519-537-8382 • jacobuscvandyk@gmail.com GPS: N 43° 8.299 W 80° 42.548

Village Cheese Mill

Enjoy local, Canadian & imported cheeses. “Where you can always taste before you buy.” Enjoy a drink & light lunch in the tearoom or stroll through time in the Heritage Museum.

333744 Plank Line, Salford, ON N0J 1W0 519-485-0600 • www.villagecheesemill.com GPS: N 42° 59.861 W 80° 49.687

Y U Ranch

Purchase 100% grass-fed beef by the pound, for the taste and for your health, while experiencing the ecological harmony at the Y U Ranch.

460 Plowmans Line, Tillsonburg, ON N4G 4G9 519-842-2597 • www.yuranch.com GPS: N 42° 51.655 W 80° 43.382 a taste of oxford 25

Flowers & Bedding Plants  Ruchurst Farms Greenhouses 316074 31st Line, Embro 519-475-4454 May – June: Mon - Sat 8 am - 8 pm; Sun 10 am - 4 pm www.ruchurst.com service@ruchurst.com Spring plants, Baskets, Patio pots, Flats, Perennials; Local Nursery stock, Soils

 Nith Valley Organics 936754 Blenheim Rd., Plattsville 226-749-1453 Nathan Klassen May - June: Mon - Sat 8 am - 8 pm; Year-round: By appointment or by chance.

No Sunday sales; See us at Waterloo Square Farmers’ market, Aberfoyle Farmers’ Market info@nithvalleyorganics.ca www.nithvalleyorganics.ca Tomato plants, bedding plants, vegetables, herbs

Fruits,Vegetables & Herbs  Aarden Farms 196709 19th Line, Lakeside 519-349-2272 Dennis Aarts Mid July - Mid Oct: Sun - Fri 10 am - 6 pm; Sat 8 am - 6 pm Rest of the year by appointment aardenfarms@quadro.net Sweet corn, tomatoes (field), melons, peppers, cucumbers, pumpkins; Oxford green beans  Ann Slater, Fresh Organic Vegetables 157030 15th Line Zorra, Lakeside 519-349-2448 Ann Slater Apr - Dec: Tues - Community Supported Agriculture pickup, by appointment or see us at St. Marys Farmers’ Market aslater@quadro.net Certified organic salad greens, tomatoes, beets, beans, squash, etc.  Berrylicious Fruit Farm

425533 Substation Rd., Burgessville 519-424-3147 Don and Wendy Colcuc Year-round: By appointment only colcuc@silomail.com Fresh and frozen blueberries and elderberries, pumpkins, gourds and fall products

 Binnendyk Orchard 332700 Plank Line, Tillsonburg 519-688-9091 Ellen Binnenkyk Year-round - No Sunday sales: Mon - Fri 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Sat 8 am - 5 pm Apples, sweet corn, pumpkins, squash  Godelie Family Farm 225754 Otterville Rd., Otterville 519-879-6562 Gary and Blanche Godelie Mid June - end of Oct: Mon - Fri 8 am- 8 pm; Sat 8 am - 6 pm; Sun 8 am - 4 pm garygodelie@sympatico.ca Strawberries, sweet corn, potatoes, vegetables in season, pumpkins, gourds, raspberries  Koteles Farms Limited

164700 New Road, Tillsonburg 519-842-5425 or 519-842-4810 May - June: Mon - Sat 8 am - 5 pm; Sun 9 am - 4 pm Asparagus

 Lettuce Alive 2881 Windham Line, Norwich 519-468-3686 Year-round: By appointment only lettuce@caylix.com Hydroponic lettuce - green leaf, red leaf, botson, hydroponic arugula  Doug & Gayle McCallum

 Howard’s Maple Syrup

455241 45th Line, Woodstock 519-475-6752 Dan & Kristen Howard Year-round: By appointment or by chance. See us at Woodstock Farmers’ Market Mar - May, Oct - Dec dkhoward@xplornet.ca Maple Syrup

 Jakeman’s Maple Farm 454414 Trillium Line, Beachville 519-539-1366 Robert Jakeman Year-round: Mon-Fri 8 am - 4:30 pm; Sat 10 am - 4 pm postmaster@themaplestore.com www.themaplestore.com Maple Syrup, maple cream cookies, maple icewine syrup, maple sugar, maple cand ies, maple tea & coffee

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 Mitchdale Farms 963229 Road 96, Uniondale 519-349-2271 Paul and Janice Mitchell July: Mon - Sun 9 am - 7 pm; Year-round by appointment Fresh picked raspberries; frozen raspberries; raspberry pies and jams

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 Monheim

Farm Limited 564960 Karn Rd., Woodstock 519-617-0720 or 519-539-2982 Philip Karn or Helen Karn Sept - Nov: Mon - Sat 9 am - 5 pm; Sun noon - 5 pm monheim@execulink.com Apples

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 Potters Road Berries

145476 Potters Rd., Tillsonburg 519-842-2723 Nellie Verbruggen June - July: Mon - Fri 8 am - 8 pm; Sat 8 am - 6 pm; Sun 8 am - noon Strawberries, raspberries, rhubarb.

Pick your own or ready-picked.

Frozen berries available

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 Red Barn Berries & Veggies 744716 County Rd. 17, Woodstock 519-537-3756 Sue Hilborn May - Oct: Mon - Fri 8 am - 8 pm; Sat - Sun 8 am - 6 pm info@redbarnberries.com www.redbarnberries.com Strawberries, hydroponic salad greens, culinary herbs, tomatoes (beefstake to grape), peas, beans; Oxford seedless cucumbers, melons, raspberries, onions, squash  Roxburgh’s Roost 296508 29th Line, Lakeside 519-283-6262 Jim and Anne Roxburgh May - Oct: Mon - Sat 9 am - 7 pm Asparagus, peaches, nectarines  Sheldon Berries 276347 Zorra Line 27, Lakeside 519-283-6025 Ray and Peggy Sheldon June - Oct: Mon - Fri 9 am - 8 pm; Sat 9 am - 5 pm; No Sunday sales www.sheldonberries.com Blueberries, Raspberries (summer and fall), Strawberries, Beans, Peas, tomatoes, peppers, pumpkins, squash

635390 14th Line, Woodstock 519-469-3252 July - Oct: By appointment only; See us at London Sales Arena Trail’s End Green & yellow beans, tomatoes field & Roma, sweet peas, peppers, cucumbers

 Southsands Farm 846413 Township Rd 9, Bright 519-463-5209 July: Mon - Sat 8 am - 6 p.m.; Sun 8 am - noon www.southsandsfarm.com Raspberries, blueberries

 McRuer Organics 5139 Trussler Rd., Ayr 519-632-7762 June - Oct: Mon - Sun 8 am - 6 pm mcruerorganics@silomail.com www.donbarfarms.com Certified organic by Pro-Cert - lettuce, carrots, potatoes, beets, spinach, beans and more

708 Pattullo Ave. W., Woodstock 226-228-4433 or 519-456-0105 Tom Butler June - Oct: By appointment or by chance Fruits & Vegetables, Herbs, Organically grown produce - kale, lettuce, chard, garlic, beans

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Honey & Syrups

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 Tom’s Organics

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www.oxfordbuylocal.ca

Meats & Fish  Alstein Farms 436455 43rd Line, Embro 519-475-4391 Albert and Christine Renkema Year-round: By appointment only alstein@execulink.com www.alsteinfarms.com Black Angus Freezer beef - natural

 BBQ Feast Catering 236354 23rd Line, Lakeside 519-283-6553 David Doherty Year-round: By appointment only info@bbqfeast.com www.bbqfeast.com Party Pig ™ BBQ Pulled Pork, Party Pig ™ Whole Roast Pigs; Oxford slowsmoked Beef Brisket; Ontario BBQ 1/ 4 chicken

 Eshcol Farm 157030 15th Line, Uniondale 519-349-2783 Stew Slater Year-round: By appointment only or see us at St. Marys Farmers’ Market (May - Nov) msslater@quadro.net Organic - red veal, ground beef, all beef summer sausage, beef/ pork sausages, all beef pepperettes  Goossens Trout Farm Ltd. 165548 New Road, Otterville 519-879-6352 Brian Goossens Year-round: Mon - Sun 8 am - 4 pm call ahead to order goose@oxford.net Rainbow trout- whole, cleaned, fillets

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 Yungblut Meats 496745 10th Line, Tavistock 519-462-2928 Tim and Lisa Yungblut Year-round: Tues- 8 am - 4 pm; Wed & Fri 9 am - 3 pm ; Sat 9 - 11 am; Mon & Thurs by appointment. tlyungblut@everus.ca Beef - home grown, drug and hormone free, Oxford/ Norfolk pork, Ontario chicken

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Miscellaneous  

 Nature Calves Ltd. 713551 Middletown Line, Burgessville 519-424-2500 Chris Ravensway Year-round: By appointment only or by chance Live cattle buyers and sellers

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 Ralph Moore & Sons (2009) 245654 Milldale Rd., Otterville 519-879-6588 Annette Wilson Year-round: Mon - Fri 8:30 am - 5 pm; Closed early on Fridays in Summer birdseed@execulink.com www.ralphmooreandsons.on.ca Spray Millet, indoor birdseed, outdoor birdseed, pigeon feed; Thailand Buttlebone, Belgium Versele-Laga products and Orlux products; Assorted grains for birdseed from Canada and US

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Retailers & Markets

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 Bickle’s Orchard Park Farms 596633 Hwy 59, Woodstock 519-462-2947 Tom & Kathy Bickle Sept - May: Mon - Sat 9 am - 5:30 pm Apples, Oxford honey and local jams, jellies and relishes, Ontario produce, Christmas trees, apple products, US citrus

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 Bright Cheese & Butter Mfg

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816503 County Rd. 22, Bright 519-454-8600 Sue Woolcott-Baker Year-round: Mon - Fri 9 am - 6 pm; Sat 9 am - 4 pm brightcheesebutter@rogers.com www.brightcheeseandbutter.ca Cheddar cheese, soft cheese, curds, flavour cheeses, sizzling hot Havarti, Asiella; Oxford Honey, Ontario Maple Syrup, Ontario Apple butter

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424847 Substation Rd., Burgessville 519-424-2898 Mike Vanderklooster Last week of Nov, month of Dec until Christmas: Sat & Sun 8 am - 5 pm mvanderklooster@execulink.com www.christmastrees.on.ca U- cut - Christmas trees - Balsam Fir, Austrin Pine, Scotch Pine, Serbian Spruce, White Spruce, White pine; Balsam Fir wreaths, boughs, dogwood

 Birtch Farms and Estate Winery 655514 15th Line, Woodstock 519-469-3040 Apr - Dec call or check website for hours; Jan - Apr by appointment info@birtchfarms.com www.birtchfarms.com Apples, fruit wine, pumpkins, squash, cider, fresh fruit pies and other baked goods; Oxford natural fed beef, pork, chicken, Oxford honey, Ontario sparkling cider and preserves

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www.oxfordbuylocal.ca

 Downtown Woodstock Farmers’ Market

466 Dundas St., Museum Square, Woodstock 519-537-5721 May - Oct: Thurs afternoons info@downtownwoodstock.ca www.downtownwoodstock.ca Farm fresh fruits & veggies, eggs, cheeses, fresh meats, baked goods, European breads, honey, flowers, plants & more

 Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese 445172 Gunn’s Hill Rd., Woodstock 519-424-4024 Year-round: Tues - Fri 10am - 5pm; Sat 9am - 6pm info@gunnshillcheese.ca www.gunnshillcheese.ca Four unique varieties of farmstead cheese; variety of other Oxford County products

 Tillsonburg Farmers’ Market Station Arts Centre, 41 Bridge St. W., Tillsonburg 519-842-9772 Edward Ecker May - Nov: Sat 8 am - noon office@stationarts.ca www.stationarts.ca Produce, baking, preserves and more  Witch Watch Winery

244263 Airport Rd., Tillsonburg 519-842-2262 Han Brus Sept - Oct; Mon - Sat 8 am - 5 p.m., Sun 12 - 5 p.m. rest of the year Fri & Sat 8 - 5 hans@brusorchards.com www.brusorchards.com Fruit, cabbage, potatoes, pumpkins, squash

 Woodstock Fairgrounds Farmer s’ Market/ Woodstock Agricultural Society 875 Nellis St., Woodstock 519-537-8212 Year-round: Market - Sat 7 am - noon; Office Mon - Fri 9 am - 1 pm woodstock875@rogers.com www.woodstockfairgrounds.com Fruits, vegetables, dairy products, baked goods, meats, fish, maple syrup, honey, jams, preserves, flowers & bedding plants

a taste of oxford 27

Holiday-Spiced Roasted Acorn Squash Soup with Apple Cider Toasted Walnuts

Recipe courtesy of Executive Chef William McNamara from the Quality Hotel & Suites & Convention Centre 2 acorn squash 1 large or 2 small sweet onions ¼ cup butter 2 cups 35% cream ½ cup brown sugar 1 ½ teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon ground clove ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg ¼ teaspoon ground allspice Canola oil Salt/pepper to taste TOASTED WALNUTS 1/3 cup walnuts 1 tablespoon apple cider or cider vinegar (vinegar works best) 1 tablespoon white sugar ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix together, spread out on non stick baking sheet in thin layer.

2 Place In a 350° F oven for 10 minutes, mixing occasionally until moisture is gone and nuts are toasted. Pay close attention, as they burn easily.

3 Remove from oven, allow to cool completely, and break up using your hands.

4 Preheat oven to 350° F. 28 a taste of oxford

5 Cut 2 acorn squash in half and remove the seeds with a spoon.

6 In a shallow pan, place acorn squash cut side up, season with salt, pepper, and a little brown sugar and lightly brush with canola oil.

7 Roast in oven for 45 minutes or until fork tender and soft. The brown sugar should be lightly caramelized but not burnt.

8 Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly, then scoop out squash from skin and roughly chop or break up.

9 Slice sweet onions. Melt butter into soup pot and add in onions. Stir often over medium low heat for 20 minutes until onions are browned and caramelized.

10 Add in cooked squash, 35% cream, spices and brown sugar, then add water until squash is just covered.

11 Bring to slow boil gently, stirring often. Remove from heat, then blend using immersion/stick blender (or allow to cool and blend using standard blender). If it is too thick, let out with cream or water.

If too thin, it will thicken best with beurre manie.

12 Heat, season, and serve with toasted walnuts on top. www.tourismoxford.ca

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PATINA’S GIFTS OF ART & CRAFT

112 Thames St. S., Ingersoll, ON N5C 2T4 T: 519-485-6466 E: : patinas@rogers.com Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm; open Friday ‘til 9pm GPS: N 43° 02.325 W 80° 52.994

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ELM HURST INN AND SPA

415 Harris St. Ingersoll, ON N5C 3M8 TF: 1-800-561-5321 E : info@elmhurstinn.com www.elmhurstinn.com Hours: Mon-Sat 7:30am-9pm; Sun 10:30am-8pm GPS: N 43° 01.800 W 80° 51.319

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GUNN’S HILL ARTISAN CHEESE LTD.

445172 Gunns Hill Rd., R.R. #4 Woodstock, ON N4S 7V8 T: 519-424-4024 E : info@gunnshillcheese.ca www.gunnshillcheese.ca Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm; Sat 9am-4pm GPS: N 43° 3.756 W 80° 41.557

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JUST-A-FEW-FOTOS

BIRTCH FARMS AND ESTATE WINERY

655514 15 th Line, R.R. #7 Woodstock, ON N4S 7W2 T: 519-469-3040 E: info@birtchfarms.com www.birtchfarms.com Hours: Open daily August 1–December 24, See Page 22 for more GPS: N 43°11.356 W 80º44.040

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JUST FOR YOU B&B

6325 Dundas St., Thamesford, ON N0M 2M0 TF: 1-888-221-4650 E : just4u@xplornet.ca www.bbjust4ucanada.com GPS: N 43° 02.588 W 81° 02.358

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“We recommend that you call ahead to book your visit and to confirm hours.

Some sites are not open on Sundays.”

DAIRY CAPITAL CHEESE SHOPPE

474 Dundas St., Woodstock, ON N4S 1C4 T: 519-537-7623 www.dairycapitalcheese.ca Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30am-5:30pm; Sat 9am-5pm GPS: N 43° 07.802 W 80° 45.427

COYLE’S COUNTRY STORE (SINCE 1899)

244282 Airport Rd. HWY 19, R.R. #7, Tillsonburg, ON N4G 4H1 TF: 1-800-559-7350 E : info@coylescountrystore.com www.coylescountrystore.com Hours: Mon-Sat 9:30-5; Fri til 7; Sun 11:30-5 (WIN) 10-5 (SUM) GPS: N 42°55.087 W 80°45.711

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WOODSTOCK FAIRGROUNDS SATURDAY FARMERS’ MARKET

Woodstock Fairgrounds Open: 7am – 12 noon 875 Nellis St., Woodstock, ON N4S 4C6 T: 519-539-7082 www.woodstockfairgrounds.com Hours: 6:30am-noon GPS: N 43° 08.040 W 80° 44.427

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THE BRIGHT CHEESE & BUTTER MANUFACTURING CO. LTD.

445574 Gunn’s Hill Rd., R.R. #4 Woodstock, ON N4S 7V8 T: 519-424-3693 Hours: By appointment E : justafewfotos@execulink.com www.justafewfotos.com GPS: N 43° 4.182 W 80° 38.654

R.R. #1, Bright, ON N0J 1B0 519-454-8600 www.brightcheeseandbutter.ca GPS: N 43° 16.857 W 80° 39.696

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NORWICH AND DISTRICT MUSEUM

WALTERS DINNER THEATRE

89 Stover St. N., Norwich, ON N0J 1P0 T: 519-863-3101 www.norwichdhs.ca Hours: Museum: Tues-Fri 10am-4pm; Archives: Tues and Fri 10am-12pm and 1pm-4pm GPS: N 42° 59.664 W 80° 35.963

836074 Hubbard Rd. R.R. #3 Bright, ON N0J 1B0 T: 519-463-5559 www.walterstheatre.com Hours: Summer Mon-Sat 12:30pm Matinee/ Evening 6:30pm GPS: N 43° 14.793 W 80° 37.509

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INGERSOLL CHEESE AND AGRICULTURAL MUSEUM

290 Harris Street, (Highway 19) Ingersoll, ON N5C 2V5 T: 519-485-5510 E: curator@ingersoll.ca Hours: Weekdays 10am-4pm; summer: 7 days/week 10am-4pm GPS: N 43° 02.316 W 80° 52.0045

www.tourismoxford.ca

JAKEMAN’S MAPLE FARM

454414 Trillium Line., R.R. #1 Beachville, ON N0J 1A0 TF: 1-800-382-9795 E: mary@themaplestore.com www.themaplestore.com Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-4pm, Sat 10am-4pm, Closed Sun GPS: N 43° 03.849 W 80° 46.565

a taste of oxford 29

fairs & festivals The Oxford Renaissance Festival

Pub Night: June 14–16, 6:30pm; Festival: June 15–16, 10am–8pm The legends of Knights & maidens come to life through medieval comedy, fire-eating performances, magic shows, jousting… (not that “theatrical” kind!), Celtic music & ale.

875 Nellis St., Woodstock, ON N4S 4C6 519-532-2211 • www.oxfordrenfest.ca GPS: N 43° 08.036 W 80° 44.381

Tillsonburg Turtlefest June 16, 2013 Come out of your shell & join the fun, with tons of “turtlely” events including water races, live turtle displays & education centres, crafts/games, a turtle hunt, vendors & much more!

Tillsonburg, ON • 519-842-2294 • www.tillsonburg.ca GPS: N 42° 51.777 W 80° 43.831 Wienerfest Dog Festival

June 22, 2013 A festival for the dogs (dachshunds) & well-behaved owners too!

Bobbing for wieners, races, costume contest, shopping, food & more. Proceeds to Helping Homeless Pets & Tiny Paws Rescue.

Embro, ON • 519-285-5123 • www.wienerfest.ca GPS: N 43° 03.396 W 80° 59.6634

shops, fabulous restaurants & fun in Downtown Woodstock!

Museum Square & Dundas St., Woodstock, ON 519-537-5721 • www.downtownwoodstock.ca GPS: N 43° 07.793 W 80° 45.524

Cowapolooza 12 August 16–18, 2013 Family Fun & 2 FREE Evening Concerts. Food, rides, crafters, beverage garden, Soapbox Derby, Skateboard Thrill team, Pro Wrestling, Strongman Competition and COWS, COWS, COWS! Southside Park, Woodstock ON 519-539-1291 ext. 4102 • www.cowapolooza.com GPS: N 43° 07.286 W 80° 45.083 (Southside park) Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show

September 10–12, 2013 Over 700 agricultural companies attend Canada’s Outdoor Farms Show, Canada’s largest outdoor Ag Trade Show. See the latest farm technologies in action!

Hwy #59 & Oxford Road 17, North of Woodstock ON 1-800-563-5441 • www.outdoorfarmshow.com GPS: N 43° 09.305 W 80° 46.548

Drumbo Fair

September 20–22, 2013 The Drumbo Agricultural Society’s family-friendly fair showcases everything from heavy horses, home crafts and An awesome FREE Festival. Live entertainment, Saturday Bikes homemade pies to a Children’s Village — including pony & Blues, Sunday Streetfest Cruise, artisans, vendors, great rides, tribute shows & a Youth Talent Search.

Drumbo Fairgrounds 42 Centre St., Drumbo ON Oxford County Fair August 22–25, 2013 519-463-5228 at Fair time The 177th Fair’s theme is Rural Roots & Rubber Boots. Parade, Old McDonald’s Farm, midway, www.drumbofair.com talent shows, livestock & craft competitions, food & beverage gardens, RAM Rodeo & more!

GPS: N 43°14.090 Woodstock Fairgrounds, 875 Nellis St., Woodstock, ON • 519-537-8212

W 80°33.168 www.woodstockfairgrounds.com • GPS: N 43° 08.036 W 80° 44.381

Downtown Woodstock B.I.A. Summer Streetfest August 8–11, 2013

Quehl’s Famous Apple Schnitz Pie Quehl’s prides itself in making every effort to use local ingredients and we like to use apples from Bickle’s Apple Orchard for this recipe.

CRUMBLE RECIPE ¼ cup of brown sugar ¼ cup flour 1 oz of butter Mix together until crumbly.

Pie Shell — Cook your favourite pie crust recipe to create a bottom crust. It can be 8, 9 or 10 inches but the larger the pie, the longer the cooking time.

Sliced Apples — Fill pie shell completely with sliced apples, not packed too tightly.

White Sugar — Sprinkle ½ cup of white sugar over apples

30 a taste of oxford

Milk — Pour milk over apples and sugar in the pie crust until it almost reaches the top of the pie Crumble — Sprinkle with crumble and bake at 375–400°F (depending on the oven) for 45 minutes to one hour.

Your pie is done when the crust has browned and the fruit in the center of the pie is soft and bubbling.

www.tourismoxford.ca

Pan-Roasted Chicken Fromage filled with Zucchini & Herb Cream Cheese

Served with Roesti Potato, Pommery mustard sauce and seasonal vegetables Recipe courtesy of Executive Chef Michael Davies from Elm Hurst Inn & Spa Makes 4 servings 9 oz chicken breast, skin on 8 oz julienne of zucchini 4 cloves garlic chopped fine 1 tsp fresh thyme, removed from stem, chopped fine 1 tsp fresh oregano, chopped fine 5 oz herb cream cheese Kosher salt, fresh ground black pepper POMMERY MUSTARD SAUCE 4 oz chardonnay wine 4 oz demi glace (basic brown sauce) 4 oz 35% cream 2 tsp Pommery mustard sauce 1 tsp Dijon mustard

Chopped fresh chives Kosher salt, fresh ground pepper to taste 8 Sweat onion in a little olive oil, remove to a bowl, add cooled potato and grated cheese, add chives, season to taste. Shape potato mixture into four patties 9 To cook, add olive oil and a little butter to a sauté pan, when pan is hot add patties to pan, brown on both sides until golden. Finish in oven 375 just until they are warm inside. Remove from pan, place on plate.

The Oxford Garden Party

1 Prepare filling, sauté zucchini in a little olive oil, until wilted but still crisp, add garlic.

2 Place in colander to cool, add fresh herbs, salt and pepper to taste.

3 Cream the cheese in separate bowl, add cooled zucchini mixture and lightly mix 4 Make an incision or pocket in the chicken breast fill with cream cheese mixture 5 Pan-sear chicken in hot skillet with olive oil, skin side down bake in oven at 375 for 20 minutes or until cooked. Remove from pan, keep warm.

6 Prepare sauce, deglaze same pan with wine, and reduce to half add brown sauce and cream reduce to half, finish sauce with both mustards, season to taste.

7 Present chicken breast on top of roesti potato, garnish plate with carrots, sautéed shiitake mushroom, asparagus, yellow pepper, spoon warm sauce over chicken and serve. Garnish with a spring of fresh thyme.

ROESTI POTATO 1 small Spanish onion chopped fine 3 large Yukon potato, cooked in skin, cooled skin removed and grated 3 oz grated gruyere cheese

www.tourismoxford.ca

Celebrating summer, local food and live music:

Tuesday, July 9th 5:30 - 6:30 pm refreshments (cash bar) - Dinner @ 6:30 pm Tickets $75 per person Local Chefs Partnered with Local Farmers.

Outdoors on the lawns at the beautifully renewed Elm Hurst Inn & Spa. Tickets available at Tourism Oxford 1-866-801-7368 or tourism@oxfordcounty.ca

a taste of oxford 31

Oxford Fresh is a group of chefs, growers and processors, and from field to fork, they are celebrating local food in Oxford County!

From creative chefs in outstanding restaurants to innovative farmers, crafty processors, colourful farmers’ markets and friendly shopkeepers, everyone has a story to share.

Spend a couple of days travelling our back roads. By all means bring your cooler. And keep in touch with the food scene in Oxford by following us on Facebook, Twitter and on our Blog.

Make the connections and more at

www.oxfordfresh.com

www.tourismoxford.ca 32 a taste of oxford

www.tourismoxford.ca