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Introduction
Travel back roads, country lanes and a series of diverse trails where you can see, touch and taste the bounty of Oxford County firsthand.
Discover the local terroir, pastoral landscapes, and idyllic country scenes, such as the thousands of tulips
that envelop a farmhouse near Burgessville, or acres of apple orchards flowering in the springtime. The
stage is perfectly set for a truly blossoming culinary tourism experience.
Oxford County is bordered on the north by the city of Stratford, on the east by Kitchener/Waterloo,
on the west by London, and sliced through the centre by Highways 401 and 403. Located on
the northern extremity of the Carolinian Life Zone, Oxford County is the meeting place for two
distinct ecological regions found in Ontario’s Southwest. Lush deciduous forests, swamps
and wildlife are found beside conifers, bogs and fens.
From hospitable B & B’s, to a range of welcoming hotels and inns, it’s worth a stay in
Oxford County to explore not only the countryside but the talented chefs and farmers who
are committed to showcasing Oxford County’s culinary regionalism.
Acquaint yourself with the history of Oxford’s proud Quaker settlements and its
pivotal role in the Underground Railroad. Take in music and a play at a local
community theatres or at Walters Dinner Theatre in their renovated 19th-century barn.
The horse and buggy is a common sight here. Stop by an Amish roadside
produce stand or visit Woodstock Farmers’ Market Saturday mornings at the
fairgrounds – year-round since 1843 – or Thursday afternoons
on the front lawn of the historic Woodstock Museum, for local
produce, meat, eggs and flowers, and baking for
the ride home.
Restaurant Sound Bites
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SixThirtyNine
Established in 2005, SixThirtyNine is a stellar 30-seat restaurant offering ever-changing seasonal menus of locally-sourced ingredients. For a decade, Chef Eric Boyar, whose roots are in classical French cuisine, honed his craft in Toronto hot spots — Crush Wine Bar, Splendido, Mistura and The Metropolitan Hotel — before returning to the area to operate this landmark, casual fine dining restaurant with his mother, Pauline Bucek. Chef’s Table and tasting menus are available upon request.
639 Peel Street, Woodstock
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Elm Hurst Inn and
Country Spa
The Victorian Mansion Restaurant gives you a choice of 9 private dining rooms. The Inn has been offering outstanding hospitality to their guests for over 30 years. Executive Chef Michael Davies has the culinary distinction of Chef de Cuisine with honours standing, as well as being a teacher of culinary arts. He apprenticed at Benmiller Inn in Goderich and has worked in Stratford, at the highly respected The Church Restaurant and Keystone Alley Café.
415 Harris Street, Ingersoll
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The Manse
The Manse, originally an 1890 Methodist parsonage, features innovative cuisine, stylish surroundings and architectural allure. Chef Vasco Serrador’s menu contains Oxford County ingredients sourced from Poultry Specialties, Norpac, Goossen’s Trout Farm and Verlinden Farms.
38 Ridout Street West, Tillsonburg
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Quehl’s Restaurant
Quehl’s has become a destination for Stratford Festival motorcoach tours, before or after a play. Serving homegrown comfort food, Quehl’s is committed to using only the freshest ingredients and traditionally-raised meats and organic products, supplied by local producers and farmers. The restaurant is Eat Smart approved and allergy conscious, with fresh baking and home-made pies, just like Mom made!
33 Woodstock Street South, Tavistock
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Niko’s Eatery and Bar
Chefs Brandon Buckle and Brian Rocco are passionate about creating exceptional dining experiences. Their culinary philosophies speak to the natural flavours of local quality ingredients, with an emphasis on combining fresh and complimentary flavours. The wine list features a substantial number of Niagara wines.
102 Broadway Street, Tillsonburg
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Ody’s Restaurant, Lounge
and Patio
Chef Jason Schutt’s family-friendly menus contain an assortment of great tasting selections along with a seasonal buffet seven days a week. Ody’s, located in the Quality Hotel and Suites, was the recipient of the 2009 Outstanding Food Service Award by the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce.
580 Bruin Boulevard, Woodstock
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Just for You Bed and Breakfast
Located in Thamesford, this B&B provides modern accommodation perfect for a weekend getaway or a cozy overnight. Enjoy Dutch-Canadian cuisine and a gourmet breakfast made from fresh local ingredients.
6325 Dundas Street, Thamesford
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Charles Dickens Pub
Woodstock’s Charles Dickens Pub is managed by Karen Culley and Joan Hodder, a daughter and mother team who have been in business since 1996. The ambience is cozy, warm and welcoming, not only with good local food in season, but local entertainment.
505 Dundas Street, Woodstock
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Oxford's Culinary Events
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Drumbo Fair
The success and longevity of the Drumbo Fair, since 1850, is based on a strong community involvement and a desire to promote and improve the local agricultural industry. What started as families gathering to compare local agriculture in a picnic setting continues today as a hospitable place to meet while celebrating community activities and the agricultural spirit of the area. The 161st edition of the Fair will be held in late September.
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Oxfordlicious and Savour Oxfordlicious
Oxfordlicious is about adventures in good eating through local chefs working hand-in-hand with area producers to create locally inspired menus. The dining promotion runs the month of September. From fine dining to casual and family style dining, there’s something for everyone. Farmers and producers pair with local chefs to showcase Oxford‘s best ingredients. You’ll also be able to sample regional wines and craft beers sourced from a 100-mile radius. Adding to the culinary
festivities is live local music and an art show featuring local artiststs.
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Farmer’s Markets
Saturday morning farmers’ markets have been a favourite pastime in Oxford County since 1853. In summer months a Thursday afternoon and evening market in downtown Woodstock presents a welcome alternative for folks who can’t make it Saturday. The downtown Woodstock farmers market is located in the gardens on the front lawn of the Woodstock Museum National Historic Site.
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Woodstock Cowapolooza
The City created a festival that promotes and preserve Woodstock’s heritage as the "Dairy Capital" with a fun weekend event August 12-14 called Cowapalooza. Cow food. Cows live music. Cows rides. Cows soapbox derby.
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Woodstock Fair
Since 1836, the Woodstock Fair has been the signature event of the Woodstock Agricultural Society offering an opportunity to educate the public on Oxford County’s rich agricultural heritage. The 175th annual Woodstock Fall Fair will be held August 25th through 28th, 2011 at the Woodstock Fairgrounds.
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Oxford’s Farm Tours
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Oak Manor Farms
Nestled in the fertile farmland of north Oxford, known for its oak trees, Oak Manor
Farms have been pioneers in the organic industry since 1975. Three generations of
Reiblings have been dedicated to this family-founded business. Using only verified
organic products, Oak Manor mills, and packages, stone-ground flours, cereals,
grains and pasta. Visit their on-farm store right near Punkeydoodles Corners.
756907 County Road 5, RR 1, Tavistock
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Jakeman’s Maple Products
For two years running, Jakeman’s have won the coveted National Post "Best
Maple Syrup in Canada" award. This fourth-generation maple syrup family
learned their craft from the First Nations people and have been producing
maple syrup ever since. The Sweaburg General Store, built in 1855, was
moved to Jakeman’s and now functions as museum, pancake house and
maple gift shop.
454414 Trillium Line, RR 1, Beachville
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Godelie Family Farm
With a farm stand based on the old-fashioned honour
system (when they are in the fields), the Godelies have
made a science out of sourcing the sweetest, most
succulent varieties of fruits, vegetables and picking
them at the peak of their flavour. Strawberries are prime
for preserves or eating right out of the box on the way home. Godelies
grow six varieties of sweet corn, from early season to late maturity. Other
specialities include mini potatoes, tomatoes and squash and much more.
225754 Otterville Road, RR 1, Otterville
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Goossen’s Trout Farm
Some of the purest spring water in Ontario is located in the Otterville area,
perfect for raising fresh Rainbow Trout, in high demand by discerning chefs and
families alike. The trout farm has been in operation since 1963, with fresh trout
available throughout the year on short notice by calling ahead.
225754 Otterville Road, RR 1, Otterville
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Walters Dinner Theatre
Enjoy a locally-sourced traditional Country Dinner Buffet prepared by Quehl’s
Restaurant and then be entertained by a show-stopping Live Music or Theatre
performance. This takes place in a beautiful 180-year-old, handhewn-beamed
barn theatre, complete with comfortable seating. Find out why 20,000 fans visit
each year.
836074 Hubbard Rd, Bright (Hwy 401 Drumbo exit)
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Birtch Farms and Estate Winery
Birtch Farms is located just north of Woodstock near the town of Innerkip on the
15th Line, in a beautiful country setting. From modest beginnings as an orchard
with "edu-tainment" and family activities, the orchard has grown to include a
year-round fruit winery retail operation with tours and seasonal culinary events
and tastings, pick your own apples and pumpkins, a children’s playground and
a small corn maze.
655514 15th Line, RR 7, Woodstock
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Oxford Honey and Supplies
Oxford Honey produces unpasteurized liquid honey, natural creamed honey,
honey combs, bee pollen and other natural products. Pure honey is on tap all
year round but there’s no better time to visit than Saturday mornings at 11 am.
An observatory on the property next door to a bee yard provides a safe spot to
watch the weekly honey collection demonstration. The store provides infor-
mation on bee biology, and you can also purchase honey and all the equipment
you need to take up beekeeping.
385296 Oxford County Rd 59, Burgessville
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Leaping Deer Adventure Farm and Market
For 20 years, Don and Julie Budd have collected John Deere tractors from the
two-cylinder era, along with equipment, literature and other collectibles. When
their collection outgrew the sheds, they constructed a museum. Winners of an
Ontario Premier’s Innovation Award, the Budds now provide family fun rural
experiences. In autumn, they feature their corn maze and pumpkin hurling. Visit
the country store for homegrown local meats, local honey and maple syrup,
soybean snacks, popcorn, homemade preserves, with sweet corn and
pumpkins in season.
544212 Clarke Road, Ingersoll
(just off the 401, between Woodstock and Ingersoll)
Getaway Culinary Packages
Enjoy one of these culinary packages that will
inspire and recharge you, from romantic
getaways to an escape with friends.
For More Information Visit:
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