Kingston, Ontario, is a city where limestone heritage meets a vibrant, modern food scene. Once known primarily for its historic penitentiary and Queen’s University, the city has quietly become a culinary destination in Eastern Ontario. From the bustling downtown core near Princess Street to the waterfront stretches along Lake Ontario, the density of independent eateries is remarkable for a city of its size. For American travelers driving up from New York State or flying into the region, Kingston offers a dining experience that feels distinctly Canadian yet internationally influenced.
The local food culture here is driven by a deep connection to the surrounding farmland and the St. Lawrence River. Chefs in Kingston have access to an abundance of fresh produce from the nearby Frontenac County farms, artisan cheeses, and locally raised meats. This farm-to-table ethos is not just a marketing trend; it is the standard for the city’s best kitchens. You will find menus that change with the seasons, featuring heirloom vegetables in the fall and fresh catch in the summer months.
Beyond the ingredients, the atmosphere of Kingston’s restaurant scene is uniquely welcoming. The city balances the energy of a college town with the sophistication of a historic capital. This means you can find a casual, loud brunch spot just blocks away from an intimate, candlelit dining room serving multi-course tasting menus. The architectural backdrop of 19th-century limestone buildings adds a layer of charm that is hard to replicate anywhere else in North America.
For visitors, understanding the geography of the food scene is key. The downtown core is highly walkable, with many of the best spots clustered near the intersection of Princess Street and King Street. However, some of the most beloved hidden gems are located slightly outside the center, in the residential neighborhoods of Portsmouth Village or the west end. Whether you are looking for a quick bite before catching a ferry to Wolfe Island or a long, leisurely dinner after exploring Fort Henry, the options are extensive.
Navigating the sheer volume of choices can be overwhelming, especially if you are visiting for a weekend. The city boasts everything from high-end French bistros and wood-fired pizzerias to authentic Asian noodle houses and classic Canadian diners. To help you cut through the noise, we have curated a list based on consistency, ingredient quality, atmosphere, and local reputation.
Here are the 15 best restaurants in Kingston, Ontario, that you should prioritize on your next visit.
Tango Nuevo
| Address | 331 King St E, Kingston, ON K7L 3B5, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (613) 548-3778 |
Probably the best dining experience in Kingston. We had an amazing waitress who was extremely efficient, warm and knowledgeable. Food and service were exceptional. You can tell a lot of care has been taken with each plate. Can't recommend the butternut squash and peanut butter tiramisu enough! Not a singular Tapa I wouldn't order again. Can't wait to go back. My only complaint is that there were a group of girls taking photos throughout dinner with their digital camera and a lot of flash.
Well this place was an experience. We ordered many dishes and also tried a few cocktails and a mocktail. We enjoyed the beet mocktail and the lemon cocktail. I was glad to see the extensive mocktail list as a non-drinker. We had the shrimp ceviche, scallops, chicken, beef, pork ribs, patatas bravas, and mushroom pintxo. Of all the dishes our favourite was the mushroom dish but I also really enjoyed the pork ribs and chicken. The patatas bravas were just ok. We were tapped out and had no space for dessert but the table next to us had churros and they looked very good. Service was great and the atmosphere is also great on the inside. The bathrooms were very clean and it also looked like they have a spot in the basement you can rent out for parties. Overall great experience thank you!
Fantastic evening out with friends! The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for a cozy dinner. The shared tapas concept is great for groups—the duck confit, garlic shrimp, and mussels were all packed with flavor and cooked to perfection. Don’t skip the espresso martini to wrap up the night! Excellent service and great food. Highly recommend!
Everything was excellent! Our server Matt was very kind and experienced. The restaurant has a super cool vibe. And the food was all great! I was very impressed that all the dishes had very unique flavors and that they were not over seasoned. We will be back again!
What an experience it was dining at Tango Nuevo!
The food was absolutely fantastic, our server surprised us with a small dessert to celebrate my partner's birthday. It was truly a terrific time dinning there!
Top 3 things we tried were the Tuna Poke Nachoes, the Honey Harris's Braised Lamb Tacos and the Avocado Tartare. You've gotta try it!!
Chez Piggy Restaurant & Bar
| Address | 68 Princess St, Kingston, ON K7L 1A5, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (613) 549-7673 |
Great vibes on the patio! Staff are really nice and we were seated quickly. There’s a big parking lot right next to the restaurant for $6.25 for the day on Sunday. We brought our dog who loved hanging out with us and the staff. The waiters and waitresses all adored her, coming to greet her and bring her water/treats. The food was amazing - couldn’t pick a favorite. The pastas, oysters were fab. Highly recommend the mussel piri piri! The string lights are really pretty and drinks are interesting. It was buzzing outside and besides the bugs flying around, this is the first time I’d recommend the patio at a restaurant over the indoors.
A great experience overall! The food was delicious, and the service and atmosphere were even better. They are both pet- and kid-friendly, which made our visit even more enjoyable. They brought my dog a bowl of ice water, and they gave my child a coloring book and crayons, even letting her choose her favorite character. The building itself was beautiful, making it a wonderful place to dine. Highly recommended!
This is the fourth or fifth time visiting Chez Piggy. We aren't in Kingston that often, but when we are I always try and have a meal here.
the atmosphere is awesome. The path/tunnel through century limestone walls. So very cool. The service is always top notch and the food is just incredible. It's an expensive night out for dinner, no doubt, but it's worth it.
I had a wonderful dining experience at Chez Piggy Restaurant & Bar. I honestly can't remember the name of the dish I ordered, but I absolutely loved it—it was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully prepared. The coffee was also excellent and paired perfectly with their delicious dessert selection.
Our server was fantastic and took the time to explain the menu and the history of the restaurant, which made the experience even more enjoyable. I thought it was fascinating to learn that the restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored limestone horse stable dating back to the early 1800s. The historic setting gives the place a unique charm and atmosphere that's hard to find elsewhere.
Overall, the food, service, and ambiance made for a memorable visit. I'd love to come back the next time I'm in Kingston. Highly recommended!
Had dinner at Chez Piggy and was very happy to see that the duck was still on the menu. It turned out to be one of the best duck dishes I’ve had.
My reservation was for 8 PM, but I arrived early at around 7:40 and they promptly seated me, which I appreciated. I was seated upstairs, which was quieter and made for a more relaxed dinner. One thing to be aware of, though, is that the upstairs floor shakes quite noticeably when people walk by. It didn’t ruin the experience, but it was definitely noticeable.
The kitchen was a little slower than usual and the food took around 40 minutes, but the servers were amazing throughout the evening — attentive, friendly, and welcoming. They also provided bread while I waited, which was a nice touch.
The duck was incredibly tender, falling off the bone, with none of the gaminess you sometimes get with duck. It was flavourful, beautifully cooked, and absolutely delicious. It was nicely paired with Riesling, arugula, and risotto. The risotto was lightly seasoned and I personally needed to add a little salt, but overall the combination worked very well together.
We also ordered the potatoes — after six hours on the bike, carbohydrates were definitely required! They were well seasoned and tasted like they had been properly soaked or prepared before baking, giving them a great texture and flavour.
The oysters were fresh and excellent. Fresh oysters always make me smile, and these certainly did.
For a drink, I tried the Piggy Spritz. It was interesting and definitely had some character, although the absinthe flavour was a little strong for my personal taste.
I finished with the chocolate peanut butter mousse, which was the perfect way to end the evening — rich and satisfying and a great finish to the meal.
Overall, a wonderful dinner despite the slightly longer wait from the kitchen and the shaky upstairs floor. The service was excellent, and the duck alone is worth coming back for — easily one of the best I’ve had.
Le Jardin
| Address | 345 King St E, Kingston, ON K7L 3B5, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 4:30 – 11:00 PM Thursday: 4:30 – 11:00 PM Friday: 4:30 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 4:30 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 4:30 – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (613) 766-6068 |
Le Jardin delivers an exceptional dining experience from the moment you walk through the door. The atmosphere is elegant yet welcoming, creating the perfect setting for a memorable evening. The service was truly outstanding. Every member of the team was attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about ensuring our experience was nothing short of perfect.
We had the opportunity to dine at the Chef's Table, and it elevated an already incredible evening to another level. Watching the attention to detail, craftsmanship, and care that goes into every dish gave us an even greater appreciation for the meal.
The steaks were, without question, some of the best we've ever had. Each one was cooked to perfection exactly as ordered, showcasing both the quality of the ingredients and the talent of the kitchen. The starters and sides were equally impressive, with every dish beautifully presented and full of flavour.
Le Jardin isn't simply a place to have dinner. It's a dining experience that leaves a lasting impression. If you're visiting Kingston or are fortunate enough to live nearby, I can't recommend this restaurant highly enough. It is an absolute must-visit, and we'll certainly be returning.
My husband and I went to Kingston for a getaway and I reserved a table at Le Jardin. The moment you walk in the doors, you are amazed, the vibe was unbelievable. We tried both the Japanese Wagyu beef, and the Australian Wagyu. We also got the Tuna for an appetizer. All I can say was everything was phenomenal, the Japanese Wagyu melted in your mouth!! Our server was amazing, she was so knowledgeable and made the experience even more special for us. I highly recommend this establishment to anyone looking for fine dining with a great atmosphere, you will get an unbelievable experience.
We visited Le Jardin on my birthday. We drove from Ottawa and it was the best experience I’ve had in a while. The food was delicious , exactly the way we wanted it, drinks were great too. Our server Carolyn was amazing, very friendly and helpful. Honestly would visit again for the food and for Carolyn.
Enjoy some pics I took that night…
I had a wonderful experience at this restaurant. The atmosphere was welcoming, the food was absolutely delicious, and everything was prepared with great attention to detail. What truly made the visit exceptional was Omar he was incredibly friendly, attentive, and professional throughout our time there. He went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable and satisfied.
It’s rare to find such a combination of great food and outstanding service. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for a memorable dining experience, and I look forward to coming back again so
If you haven't been here before, you're missing out big time! Very comfortable atmosphere and if your lucky enough, you can reserve the chef's table down by Eastern Ontario's only indoor open wood fire grill. Amazing selection of cocktails and wines. Watch them infuse cocktails with smoke. Amazing seafood, steak and veggie options. Le Jardin, you won my heart at dry-aged steaks!!! The wife and I had 6 cocktails, 1 dessert, the food in the pictures and the bill was around $300. We both walked out smiling! We will return!!
Rhodes Resto + Bar Kingston
| Address | 2360 Princess St, Kingston, ON K7M 3G4, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (613) 539-6177 |
Travelled today from Renfrew.
We came here for an early dinner when visiting our daughter in Kingston. What an incredible meal!! Our server Kaleb gave us wonderful service and helped make our 1st visit a memorable one. I highly recommend the Lobster Mac & Cheese!! My espresso martini was impressive as well. We were surprised at the affordability of the menu given the quality of the food! We definitely will return the next time we visit!
Omg this is a hidden gem in Kingston, we were thinking to go to Keg then decided to give this a try! Then found a lovely surprise!
Jackie is amazing and gave us lots of suggestions and avoided some mistakes! We will coming back just for her services!
Flavor-wise: French Oinon Soup is better than Keg.
The Manhattan Steak with cheese 🧀 melts wow a totally different heavenly-tasting experience.
The nachos are fresh and generous, more than enough for 3 ppl to share.
Price-wise: Great price for the quality and portion! After 9 pm the starts are half price!
Definitely deserve a spot in trip advisor!
Very quick and efficient service. We had a reservation for 2. Once we arrived, we were seated at a table already set up with the menus and fresh glasses of ice water. The service was also very fast and the food was delicious. We both had the Pork schnitzels with roast potatoes and asparagus with a nice glass of wine. However, like in every other restaurants, it was very noisy.
Went or breakfast on a Saturday morning. 9 a.m. The restaurant was very busy. This restaurant is newly renovated and has a very cozy atmosphere. Ordered the classic breakfast and was served by our waitress Lori. She is very personable and pleasent to talk to. The breakfast was served in a timely manner and it was delicious. The price is very reasonable! Will definitely be back!
I wasn't sure what to expect but this is the only place I could find in kingston with Yorkshire Pudding on their menu. My friend and I made a plan to go last Friday and so we made a reservation for 5pm. We got there right around 5 and the parking lot had a decent amount of cars so we were happy we made the reservation. Friday night there is steak and lobster night for $29, but like I said we were there for the stuffed yorkshire. When we got in the place seems to be split between maybe a lunch dining area and a dinner dining area, one section (that we sat in) felt very cozy and upscale with stained glass style windows and brick, with a fireplace. The tables were set with glasses of water and little candles, and the lights were low. I would definitely recommend this place for a date night or to celebrate something special. We were sat in at a table for 4, which was fine as we had somewhere to put our coats and the waitress came over pretty quick to take drink orders. We both had a glass of wine with our meals. I had a white and my friend had a red. The yorkshire was very good, the beef was great, potatoes and gravy were so good, but the vegetables seemed like they didnt match the rest of the meal. They were either boiled or steamed and didnt have any flavor, but mixed with the other parts of the dish they were good.
The place was full only 30 minutes later, definitely make a reservation. I suspect it was the steak and lobster night bringing people in, but they have specials every night. For example, the stuffed yorkshire was $22 on the Friday but on Sundays its $16.
Our waitress was excellent and our drinks and food came out quick.
Ill be back for sure the next time my boyfriend comes to town!
Ghost Taco @ Something in the Water Brewing Co.
| Address | 275 Princess St, Kingston, ON K7L 1B5, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (613) 542-4222 |
The service was super friendly and wonderful. The server made he combos work out for our order with everyone ordering a different number of tacos. My tofu taco was so so good 5/5 and my fish taco was great 4/5. My family had other tacos and mostly enjoyed theirs. I would not recommend the chips and guac - neither was good. Otherwise awesome tacos and would definitely come back for more!
We celebrated our anniversary at the Toronto location on July 19, 2026, in Liberty Village. It was such a pleasurable experience between the beer and the amazing tacos. I have never had tacos like that in my life. We came to this location after being so disappointed with the surly service and lackluster beer at Left Field Brewery up the street. We were thrilled to have another favourite brewery to add to our Toronto list. So incredibly bummed to eventually find out that the day of our first visit (July 19, 2026) would also be our last, as the Liberty Village site permanently closed the next day on July 20, 2026. Thanks for making our Sunday lunch time anniversary experience so memorable - wishing you all the best.
Coming from the restaurant industry myself I feel like they need another server. The wait time is a little long and distinguishing between an appetizer and your main course could use some work. As I realize this isn't a place to come and get smashed hammered, the food is to die for. The craft beer is always a special treat because it changes. Will definitely recommend and will definitely return.
Taco were delicious! Stopped by for a quick lunch. Service was quick and Raj the server was excellent. He really went out of his way explaining the different draft beers and taco option. Decorations were great as well.
10/10
Honestly, one of the best places in Kingston for a fun date!
Tacos are delicious, the fruit beer is great and the vibe of the place is unmatched with their trivia!
Had a mix and match, and would definitely recommend the Baja Fish, Chicken Tinga, and their Carnitas tacos!
One Eyed Jack Restaurant + Bar Kingston
| Address | 417 Weller Ave, Kingston, ON K7K 6K3, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (613) 766-8000 |
I will start by saying some positive positives. - -The atmosphere in this restaurant is really nice most of the places where you can be sat feel very private
- We Didn’t have to wait very long to be seated
- the server was really nice.
What we didn’t really like was
- how small the tables felt and the tvs being so close to you without an option to turn it off felt distracting. We did ask if it was an option to turn off and they never got back to us, and felt really slow to get little things like water to our table.
None of these things are a big deal but the food wasn’t good. I will be giving them another chance because they have a huge menu so it’s hard to perfect everything I understand that… but the calamari was VERY chewy, the salad, bruschetta and soup dinner they put the lettuce in the middle of the two hot items and it’s just hot over sauced wilted lettuce By the time you eat it. The French onion soup just has a full piece of bread in it. It’s not even broken up. It was SO salty. I couldn’t even eat it. My spouse loves salt, (He puts salt on his salt lol) And it was still too salty for him.. I couldn’t eat the soup, which was very disappointing considering it’s a charge to get French onion. The server did tell us that they usually get complaints that the gravy is too salty, the gravy on the poutine was definitely on the saltier side, but nothing compared to the French onion soup.
I will give this restaurant another chance and hopefully next time pick better options for food. I’ll update my review when they happens.
Went for dinner with a friend. The restaurant was packed but got seated immediately at a table on the bar side. Unfortunately the hostess didn't inform the wait staff she seated us so we ended up waiting about 15-20 mins before we got a drink order put in. The bartender was excellent. Amazing Ceasars and she was right there when I needed another. Jays game was on and they were winning 3-1. I ordered the chicken souvlaki dinner $20+ tax and it was excellent the only thing I would suggest is using real feta and not this crumble stuff. A char would of been nice on the chicken kabobs too. All and all good food, good drinks and lots of tv's! I had three Ceasars and my bill was $57 and change. The bartender with the tattoo on her shoulder totally redeemed the poor hostess. Plus the Manager apologized for the wait when he brought out our food. Still feeling those 2oz Ceasars.
The food was good. The booth had screens which was really a plus ! My drink wasn't good and the waitress told me it's pre boxed that is why (I wish she would have mentioned this when i was placing the order). It might be the worst magarita I tasted. She did take it back but never asked if I wanted something else until I was maybe almost done with my meal.
Honestly though everything else was pretty good. Give it a try.
Just came from a family event in Bath and was looking for a place for some pub food. Did a Google search and this was one of the first places to display. Sure glad we picked it. The food was over the top delicious and there was lots of it. For the quality and quantity of what you got, this place was way above par. The service was fantastic and our server, Maddie, was beyond awesome. To top things off, just as we were finishing up, a magician came by our table and performed a couple great little magic tricks. This was a great added bonus. If I’m ever back in Kingston, I’ll definitely be eating here.
Jess and Emma make a great team! Menu recommendations, super friendly service, checked in often, and prepped their table way before the food reached us! 5 star service and 5 star food, thank you guys!
Olivea
| Address | 39 Brock St, Kingston, ON K7L 1R7, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (613) 547-5483 |
Took my girlfriend who is Celiac here for her birthday. It was a great experience. I had the Gnocchi with beef cheek and she had the gluten free penned with arabiatta. We were both blown away with the incredible meal and followed up with tremendous desserts. She had the creme brule and I had the pana cotta. We will come back!
Well, my choice was made based on the reviews published in this thread.
I can tell that this is the place for food lovers, real food enthusiasts. Oysters 🦪 Rollovers from PEI were the best I ever had. The way they prepared them for consumption was what I do at home. Fantastic!!!
The Truffled Frites with Parmesan was something to be mentioned separately. My wife notices that the cheese was spread in abundance!!!! Wow!!!
The fried squid and Frutti de mare are the songs to sing. We loved that dinner very much!!! Strongly recommend this restaurant when in Kingston.
P. S. The Crème brûlée is something to finish your dinner. Lovely 🥰
My family and I absolutely love Olivea. Their food and service are wonderful. The beef carpaccio is the best anywhere, and we absolutely love their bread. Highly recommend the meatball appetizer and the calamari appetizers (don't forget to taste the deep fried lemon if you order the calamari - it is so good). My favourite pasta dish here is the gnocchi with beef cheek. Tonight I had the garganelli with shrimp (instead of the chicken thigh) and it was awesome.
We were a party of 6 and all of us had some change to our order whether it was an add-on or a substitution and the service was incredible. They were happy to make substitutions and they have an add-on option for different things for your pasta, which makes customizing a dish to exactly your liking so easy and the dining experience so much more enjoyable. Way to go team thanks so much for an awesome night out. We will keep coming back.
We dined here on a Saturday night. We had reservations and they were able to seat us about 10 minutes early, which was great. We ordered the bruschetta special as a starter and it easily takes the crown for the best bruschetta I have ever eaten. Be aware that you receive two massive pieces, so plan accordingly as you can easily fill up on that and a drink or two. For our mains, we both chose a pasta dish and were not disappointed. My dish was delicious, but my girlfriend's was arguably some of the best pasta I have ever tasted. The service was spot on and made for a fantastic experience. We will be back!
Drinks were great and service was quick! Both pastas were 10/10 with generous portions. I only wish I had enough space to fit in one of their great sounding desserts, but I’ll save that for next time.
Black Dog
| Address | 69 Brock St, Kingston, ON K7L 1R8, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (613) 549-5635 |
We really enjoyed the black dog tavern and it exceeded our expectations. From the outside it looks like any other pub, but the food is above average. We ordered the oysters, poutine, french onion soup and tagliatelle pasta. The oysters were very good. The French onion soup was very very good. The poutine was very very good as well. The women enjoyed her pasta too. Service was great and they have a nice patio at the back. The price of the food is a little lower than others around Kingston and quality is quite high in comparison. I will be back in the future when I visit Kingston again.
Emily i believe her name was, she gave us amazing service. The food was ok, my steak came well done but it was addressed right away after letting them know. The place started quiet and became very hectic right away and our server was by herself and she managed it gracefully. The place has Very jazzy blues vibe, love the aesthetic. It was a great experience, i would visit again if ever I am in the area.
I had the most amazing birthday celebration! From the beautifully decorated table to the incredible duck dinner, every detail made the evening feel so special. The food was outstanding, and the service was truly exceptional. The staff went above and beyond to make the celebration memorable, and their warmth and attention to detail did not go unnoticed. Thank you for making this birthday such a wonderful experience. We can't wait to return!
My partner and I were in late this afternoon for a late lunch! We sat on the patio and I believe our waitress’ name was Peyton, but I could be remembering incorrectly! Her service was absolutely exceptional, and so was the food. We had the burrata, garlic shrimp and some oysters, along with a few beers and rosé!
She was incredibly knowledgeable and made our experience that much better with her attentiveness and kindness. Everything was delicious, and we had such a great experience. We will definitely be back soon!
Visited Kingston for the weekend from Toronto.
Ordered 4 items - Escargots, French onion soup, lamb shuck, and a pasta. All of them tasted really good, the lamb was quite amazing, was perfectly booked (medium rare). Soup was good as well. Escargots were alright (could have been better if its more flavorful).
The only small complaint i had was that...the lamb and pasta were not served hot. it was warm..but not hot hot. but that might just be my preference.
Overall, the experience was good.
Hakka Himalaya : House of MO:MO
| Address | 120 Princess St, Kingston, ON K7L 5M6, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (613) 766-7337 |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
We came from New York to visit Canada. Found this restaurant in downtown area. Such a wonderful place. The food was delicious, flavorful, and tasted very authentic. Everything we ordered was fresh and well-prepared, with just the right balance of spices.
The atmosphere was welcoming and comfortable, and the staff were friendly and attentive. The portions were generous, and the overall experience was excellent.
Definitely a great place to visit if you’re craving authentic Nepali or Hakka food. I would happily come back and try more dishes! Highly recommend! ❤️
Delicious food and so filling! Sent a picture of the momos to my Nepalese friend and he was so impressed. I got the steamed momos half chicken half veggie. Also got the hakka fried chicken rice. The masala chai was a bit small and I wish there was more given. I really loved the atmosphere of the restaurant…screens with videos of Nepal and some decorations from Southeast Asia. After I ate some at the restaurant, the two dishes I ordered lasted for two more meals. Staff are very nice and attentive.
It was our first time in Kingston and our first restaurant, and it definitely offered authentic Nepali cuisine with huge portions; even for four people it was too much, which shows how amazing the food was in both quantity and quality. We ordered the Schezwan noodles, Sadeko, Thukpa veg and non-veg.
Be aware of the spice though.. its amazing but also crazy. Very nicely presented and made.
First time having Nepalese momos. Love the chewy dumpling skin and the filling was very flavorful. I would highly recommend the chicken lollipops. Great spice seasoning and amazing crunch served with the cilantro chutney.
A great getaway and a perfect stop on the way from Toronto to Montreal with friends and family! They serve authentic and delicious Nepali food with warm, friendly hospitality. It’s a wonderful place to take a break from the road, enjoy some great food, and experience a taste of Nepal. Highly recommended!
River Mill Restaurant
| Address | 2 Cataraqui St, Kingston, ON K7K 1Z6, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (613) 549-5759 |
Wow.
What a gem. Historic building. Riverside views. Glorious menu and exceptional service.
Trish took amazing care of me and did a great job explaining menu options.
I opted for the duck, since it's so rare to find on a menu and it did not disappoint. Perfectly cooked, perfectly seasoned and perfectly portioned.
Accompanied by a glass of shiraz and completed by a lovely and rich chocolate dessert (a pavé?)
This will be a go-to spot for my future visits in Kingston
As a couple in our mid-eighties, to celebrate our 4th Anniversary, we chose our neighbourhood River Mill Restaurant. Our waiter, Anthony, was warm, witty and accommodating. While we expected great cuisine, we were happily surprised by the elegant tastes created by Chef David Kashira.
We began with a toasty French baguette, then shared mussels in a spoon-to-the-bottom-of-the-bowl white wine broth. My partner, with two seafood dishes, chose Pinot Noir and I, a Cabernet Sauvignon.
In both the Grilled Arctic Char and the Grilled Ribeye, we were introduced to a small heirloom onion, the Italian cipollini. While sweet and moist at the centre, they had been sautéed in garlic butter! Thank-you, Chef !!! The entrées were sumptuous.
We ended sharing a divine lemon panna cotta. What fabulous evening.
We were at The River Mill celebrating my sister’s 70th birthday last night, and the 5 of us had an absolutely fabulous time!! From the moment we sat down, our incredible server, Chris met our every need joyfully. He was knowledgeable and funny and perfect for our family event. Our appetizers - scallops, frites, Caesar salad and featured tomato with asparagus app were delicious! The main courses - Arctic Char, Ribeye, Pork Snitzel and Chicken were AMAZING!! We enjoyed every bite. Loved the wine selection and had a beautiful table overlooking the river. Can’t wait to experience The River Mill again! Thank you for a delightful evening.
Amazing views, amazing service, and amazing food! Very worth the price, and highly, HIGHLY recommend the potato leek soup and eggs of the day!!
Lovely setting with view of the river.
The egg special was beautifully presented with ingredients as promised and beautifully tender beef.
One of our guests came all the way from Nova Scotia and was looking forward to Ontario peaches so ordered a spinach and peach salad. The waiter was apparently not informed that there were no peaches available and it came with minute bits of grapefruit. We were not offered a discount or alternative but I asked at bill time .
My beat salad contained far too much pepper and therefore this was not welcome.
The setting is lovely but mid August and the restaurant was almost empty. We were alone on the patio and there were only three tables occupied in the large main restaurant.
Clearly the word is out that the food needs improvement!
Helen Spenser
Mercury Bar & Lounge
| Address | 125 Brock St, Kingston, ON K7L 5N6, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (613) 766-5737 |
A few weeks ago, I dined here with friends, and we had a pleasant experience with great service. The portions were very generous, and the highlight was definitely the Sesame Crusted Tuna—it was so delicious! The fresh tuna had a perfect balance with the sesame-crusted surface, and the sauce elevated the entire dish. Every dish was packed with flavor and beautifully presented. The inviting atmosphere made it perfect for a date night. We look forward to returning and trying more items on the menu. Highly recommend!
Wow!!! I recently visited Kingston to catch up with a friend, and we stumbled upon Mercury. What a hidden gem!!! 😍😍😍
The atmosphere is cozy yet modern, making it a great spot to unwind and enjoy a fantastic meal.
I had the Fat City Burger, and it was incredible!! Juicy, flavorful, and unlike any other burger I’ve tried. The combination of ingredients was well-balanced, making each bite satisfying and memorable. The Fish and Chips was another highlight from their home menu. Unlike the usual oily deep-fried version, their fish is fried in a way that keeps it crispy yet lighter, making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. I was skeptical when they said it’s fried but not deep fried at the beginning, but I was blown away after the first bite. 🤤
The service was also top-notch; the staff was very sweet, friendly, and attentive, making our dining experience even more enjoyable.
I’m already looking forward to my next visit and can’t wait to try their Seafood Linguine, which comes highly recommended. If you’re in Kingston, Mercury is definitely a must-visit!!!
I had an amazing experience at this fantastic restaurant with my wife and friends yesterday! After a long drive from Toronto, we were starving and ordered quite a lot.
There are three dishes that absolutely stood out:
1. Naan with Avocado Hummus Sauce
- This was incredibly refreshing, with the avocado sauce adding a perfect summer touch. It was so good that we devoured it before even thinking about taking a picture! 🤣
2. Ricotta Toast (I think that was the name)
This was hands down the best! The sweet and sour cherry tomatoes paired beautifully with the creamy ricotta and the red sauce. The toppings was rich and refreshing. The combination was just out of this world. A must-try!😋😋😋
3. Sesame Crusted Tuna
Another highlight! The fresh tuna had a perfect balance with the sesame-crusted surface, and the sauce elevated the entire dish. It was so delicious!🤤😋
We also enjoyed the duck with waffle and butter chicken, both were great, but the three dishes above were the stars of the meal.
To top it all off, the final bill was very reasonable. I just wish this place was next to my house 🤣
Dined at Mercury Bar & Lounge last week with my partner, and we both thoroughly enjoyed it! The food was exceptional – we had the togarashi sesame-crusted tuna, the ricotta rendezvous (whipped ricotta cheese on sourdough with tomatoes – soo good!!), and the Itaewon beef burger. Every dish was filled with so much flavour and so nicely presented. The atmosphere was inviting, perfect for a date night. We look forward to going back and trying out other things on the menu. Highly recommend!
Enjoyed dinner here with a large group for a birthday celebration. The staff were friendly and attentive and the food was excellent. Everybody in our party of 13 loved their meals. Prices were fantastic for the quality of the items. Highly recommend for a meal out or to celebrate an occasion. Good drinks and a varied and unique menu while also offering staple pub items as well.
Jack's Kingston
| Address | 330 King St E, Kingston, ON K7L 1R8, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (613) 549-1207 |
Great food, and very polite service. We booked the patio in advance and when we arrived, everything was ready and setup.
The view was great up there and they had a TV playing the FIFA match. The server was a younger fellow who was very friendly and fast.
The food was impressive, the chicken Parm, pad Thai, nachos, all great. The only issue was the honey garlic chicken wings, which were a little bit underwhelming in flavour.
Would come again, and would highly recommend the patio!
Felix was an absolutely amazing server and helped us take great photos to make the night out memorable! The food was delicious and the portions are great value. Cant wait to come back!
Had a group of ten people at Jack's last night, and it was amazing. We had a secluded table that felt very private and special, and the staff were very accommodating when we needed to add one more chair last minute. Our server Kyra was incredible, and when I asked, suggested a popular IPA that was delicious. She also recommended the coconut curry chicken which was phenomenal. Kyra was very friendly and welcoming which was much appreciated! Also, there was enough food for me to bring home leftovers, which was nice. Very professional staff and a lovely night!
Went out with the hubby and kids for dinner on the patio! Our server was Rory, he was friendly and absolutely amazing at his job. Drinks came fast and so did our food. He even brought out my daughter some gummy sharks to eat when she realized her sisters drink came with them and she didnt get any in hers! The steak dinners my hubby and I had came out perfectly cooked and tasted PHENOMENAL! Put the keg to shame! We will 100% be back!
I love Birria tacos and where I normally go for them have not been that great lately. By chance I happened to be at Jack Astors downtown Kingston and noticed a they had Birria tacos on the menu! Oh my goodness they were so good and far superior to the Birria tacos 🌮 at the other venue I normally go to. Liv my server was great!!! Perfect customer service!!
The Kingston Brewing Company
| Address | 34 Clarence St, Kingston, ON K7L 1W9, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 11:30 AM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (613) 542-4978 |
The Kingston Brewing Company was easily one of the best dining experiences of my trip—and honestly, I'd drive the 400 km just to eat here again.
I sampled both the Yardwork Light Ale and the Whitetail Cream Ale, and they were excellent. Both were refreshing, well-crafted beers that paired perfectly with the meal.
The Caesar salad was outstanding. Fresh, crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, plenty of bacon, and a dressing that may be one of the best I've ever had. If you're a Caesar salad or garlic lover, this is a must-order.
The KBC Burger absolutely blew me away. The toppings and sauces were great, but the real star was the burger itself. It was cooked perfectly and packed with so much flavour that I could have happily eaten the patty on its own.
The décor and atmosphere are just as impressive as the food. Everywhere you look there's something interesting, and you could easily spend much of your visit simply taking in the character of the brewery.
Kingston Brewing Company has absolutely nailed it—fantastic food, great beer, and an atmosphere that makes you want to stay awhile. This will be one of my first stops the next time I'm in Kingston.
We visited Kingston Brewing Company during our trip to Kingston to enjoy some beer and food.
The ambiance was absolutely amazing. As soon as you walk in, you're drawn to all the details of the space—it's one of those places that makes you look around twice because there's so much character and charm. The atmosphere was lively, and the place was packed when we arrived.
Since it was so busy, we waited about 20 minutes at the bar before getting a table. Once seated, we ordered a few IPAs, which were delicious and definitely the highlight of our visit.
For food, we went with the nachos. While they tasted great, they took nearly 40 minutes to arrive, and we had to remind our server about our order. The delay was disappointing and impacted the overall experience.
Overall, we had a good time thanks to the excellent beer and unique atmosphere, but the service could definitely be improved.
They have the best elevated pub food, including an absolutely decadent burger. Their BBQ burger is some of the best food I’ve ever had. Sadly their fries are middling, but who cares when such glorious meat and bread is before you! I only wish their beef was halal so I could introduce this place to all my friends.
Great selection of craft beers. Their cider sangria is a citrusy revelation!
🍺 my girlfriend heard good things and recommended this place during our day trip to Kingston. We went around lunch time and there was free food because it was their 40th anniversary. Great music and a great atmosphere! 👌 We want to go back next time we are in town. (From Ottawa)
The Fried Chicken Sandwich was absolutely amazing! Tried their homemade KBC Sriracha sauce and their Pineapple Habanero sauce…spicy deliciousness!!! Fantastic beers too!
Days on Front
| Address | 730 Front Rd, Kingston, ON K7M 6P7, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (613) 766-9000 |
This was my first time at this restaurant. Our server Danny was very friendly and knowledgeable on the menu. Her suggestion of the pink shrimp was delicious, and I’m not a big seafood lover. So good! We both had short rib and it was very tasty! My favourite dessert of crème brûlée was great as well.
Pricing and quality of food was definitely worth it!! We are looking forward to going back already!!!
Build your appetite and head over to Days on Front for a meal packed with flavour, quality and aesthetic appeal. The menu has changed recently, and includes a nice variety of starters, mains and desserts, but also a couple of possible combinations of a three course fixed meal. All of the dishes look wonderful in terms of colour, layout and positioning. The experience includes ideal textures, and strong flavour combinations that make for a great meal.
As to particular meals - the short ribs are melt-in-your mouth cooked to perfection goodness with a strong wine-based gravy. They are boneless and not fatty - a cut I didn't even know was possible. The leek and potato soup is lovely with a drizzle of chilli oil to add some contrast and a few croutons to vary the texture. The carrot cake desert is rich and sweet with cardamom spice on top of the expected spice array. Bring me more!
This was a great visit. My only regrets are overeating... (semi-regret) and not being able to try more dishes. In time.
Honestly one of the best experiences we’ve had in a super long time. We went out to celebrate our 4 year anniversary, everything was amazing. My boyfriend got the duck and I got the mushroom pasta, he was insanely impressed and loved the duck. The mushroom pasta was unbelievable creamy and delicious. Our server Josh was very kind, and very friendly, he was easy to talk to. We definitely will be back. Thank you for everything!
Days on Front is a successful restaurant, and reservation is highly recommended. As we were leaving (mid week - Wednesday), there was lineup at the doors.
Chicken supreme was bland, dry, overcooked or maybe over-reheated, but it came with fabulous salad. Salad became a hero of the dish.
Overall - reasonable price as for a Kingston restaurant.
Great place to eat. Have recently been for a few lunches and the service is fast so no need to worry about time. Lots of parking and easy to get to. Service is always friendly and the food is very good.
Casa Domenico
| Address | 35 Brock St, Kingston, ON K7L 3B5, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (613) 542-0870 |
The service was fantastic, and the drinks were amazing. The desserts were top-notch, especially the pistachio and white chocolate ravioli. The pasta was delicious, and the appetizer was too. I also love the ginger blossom cocktail. Best in town.
I would recommend anyone in Kingston to check out Casa Domenico! It was great!!
My partner and I walked in (at peak dinner-hour) and even though there was no space for us on the patio or inside the restaurant, we were offered the bar to wait. We ended up eating dinner at the bar, even when a table on the patio opened up. We got dinner & a show; the bartender was very attentive to us, got us our food very quickly, and checked in with us many times throughout our meal to ensure everything was ok (and it was!).
The food was great! My partner had the Rigatoni alla Norcina; he said it was the BEST pasta he's ever had in his life (except mine, of course :P). I had the Salsiccia e Patate (gnocchi & sausage); it was great. The sausage reminded me of what my Nonna used to make; a great amount of fennel.
We are not from the area, so likely we wouldn't get a chance to go back, but if we are in Kingston again, I'd love to go back and try other dishes!!
I did reach out to the restaurant to ask if the chef would be willing to share their recipe for the Rigatoni alla Norcina so I can try to make it for my partner. I haven't heard back yet, but it was just last night that I sent the email. Completely understandable & reasonable if the chef is unable/unwilling to share the recipe, but I figured it wouldn't hurt to ask.
Went for my wife's birthday and had a great time. The staff was friendly and the service was great. The food was excellent, every dish was delicious. Highly recommend
Came here at a colleague’s recommendation. The lamb rigatoni had this really nice rose sauce and is slightly spicy. The seafood risotto was soft and creamy. However, the cod inside was overcooked and a bit chewy, which is a shame. Regardless, this is a great Italian restaurant that opens until 11pm unlike most other places in the area.
My husband and I went to Casa for the first time and celebrated our seven year anniversary. The server was so lovely. She congratulated us and even gave us complimentary dessert, which was to die for! For dinner, my husband ordered the lasagna di Casa and I ordered the penne alla vodka. We both agreed that the lasagna was better. Both desserts pictured (tiramisu and semifreddo) were SO good. We recommend both of them. Aside from that, the restaurant has a nice ambiance. It wasn’t too loud. The lighting was nice and dim and gave a romantic feel.
Tips for Choosing the Right Restaurant in Kingston
Selecting the perfect spot depends largely on the occasion and your personal preferences, but a few local insights can significantly enhance your experience. Kingston’s dining scene is generally casual, but reservations are highly recommended for the more upscale venues, particularly on weekends when the downtown core fills with tourists, students, and locals. By planning ahead and knowing what to look for, you can avoid the common pitfalls of tourist-trap dining and eat like a true Kingstonian.
Book ahead for weekends. The most popular spots, especially those with waterfront views or small dining rooms, fill up quickly from Thursday through Sunday. If you have your heart set on a specific place, make a reservation at least a few days in advance, particularly during the summer festival season or university homecoming weekends.
Check for seasonal menus. The best restaurants in Kingston pride themselves on rotating their offerings. If you are visiting in the late summer or early fall, look for dishes featuring local corn, heirloom tomatoes, and wild mushrooms. In the spring, ramps and asparagus often make an appearance. Choosing a restaurant with a seasonal menu ensures you are tasting the region at its peak.
Explore beyond Princess Street. While the downtown core has a high concentration of excellent restaurants, some of the true hidden gems are located in the west end or near the Kingston Memorial Centre. These neighborhood spots often rely on loyal local regulars and offer incredible value without the downtown markup.
Don’t skip the brunch culture. Kingston takes breakfast and brunch very seriously. Many of the city’s top chefs run daytime services that are just as impressive as their dinner menus. If you want to experience the local food scene without the high price tag of dinner, visiting a top-tier restaurant for brunch is a strategic move.
Ask about local beverages. A great meal in Kingston is often complemented by a local drink. The surrounding region is home to excellent craft breweries, cideries, and even a growing wine industry in Prince Edward County. Ask your server for a local pairing; they are usually incredibly knowledgeable about the provenance of both the food and the drinks.
Be mindful of the university calendar. Queen’s University and the Royal Military College heavily influence the pace of the city. During graduation, move-in week, or homecoming, restaurants can be chaotic and booked solid. Conversely, during the summer months when students leave, the city becomes quieter and reservations are easier to secure.
Kingston’s culinary landscape is a reflection of its history: layered, resilient, and full of character. The city rewards those who take the time to explore its side streets and waterfront paths, offering meals that range from comforting classics to innovative fine dining. Whether you are a history buff stopping over on a road trip or a foodie making the journey specifically to eat, the quality of the restaurants here will likely exceed your expectations.
Ultimately, the best way to experience Kingston is with an open mind and an empty stomach. The city’s chefs are passionate about their craft, and that passion is evident on every plate. By using this guide as a starting point, you can navigate the local scene with confidence and discover your own favorite spot along the shores of Lake Ontario.
