Best Contemporary Canadian Restaurants in St. Catharines

Vela has been on the list of places to visit for some time. Since Marvin left 7Enoteca in Oakville and took the helm at Vela, we have wanted to get round to check it out. Fortunately today we were able to dine at Vela and it did not disappoint! (Other than Marvin not being in for todays service). The environment is stunning. The food is amazing. The service was attentive. (Many thanks Sandy, not only on the food advice, but the wine advice as well!) We thoroughly enjoyed the evening and look forward to returning to try the tasting menu at the counter. That type of experience is right up our alley!

From apps to dessert everything was top notch! We both had the prawn appetizer which was yummy and had a little heat in sauce, but not too much and was a huge portion. Mains for us were the pork chop and filet — nothing was left on plates. Desserts were crème brûlée and bread pudding which ended the night on a high note. Frankie, our waitress, gave excellent recommendations and was very attentive. Already want to make plans to return.

I introduced my friend to the various O&B restaurants and we were booked for Maison Selby on Monday but then I got an email about Canoe. I told him about the Christmas Eve lunch. The staff called to confirm and I told them this is his first visit. They came through and had us seated at the table facing the CN Tower. The food was phenomenal as it always is. I had the onion soup and it blew my mind. I am not a soup person but seeing Parmesan custard in the description peaked my curiosity. On the surface a pureed soup but it looked like art with the green oil drizzle and black pepper delicately grounded and sprinkled. Below the surface were the caramelized onions and parmesan custard. Ohhh the flavour sensations having a party on my tastebuds! He had the Waldorf and said it was delicious. We both had the beef Wellington. So tender and flavourful and that was just the meat! I actually did the foodie happy dance in my chair nom nom nomming! The roasted veggies, deep fried kale and mashed potatoes were lovely. To be honest they weren’t hot but I wasn’t going to ruin the dining experience by saying anything. I thought the pastry was perfect, mine fell open in two layers. He would have liked his to be flakier on the outside layer. He had the sticky toffee pudding and absolutely loved it. I had the white chocolate cheesecake with the pistachio crème anglaise and raspberry sorbet & I loved it. The flavours and textures were my vibe! I tried two mocktails. I loved the ambrosia! The flavour combos were amazing! Then I tried the gala. The drink itself was underwhelming compared to the first but its saving grace was the fruit. I asked our lovely server and she said maraschino cherries. No way! Not the ones you get on top of sundaes. Way better! They were the star of that drink along with the really cool rectangular ice cube! Lovely seeing Oscar from our Maison Selby days. Told him the venue switch story for lunch and he was the 4th staff to say: Really? Love it! O&B ❤️

My brothers and I decided to treat our parents to an anniversary dinner, and the restaurant did an amazing job arranging everything. From start to finish, my parents loved the experience. The food was exceptional, and we’re incredibly grateful to the staff for making the evening so special

Great food, experience and ambiance! I would definetly revisit. I appreciated a small menu and all of our dishes were delicious.