Millcroft Inn

Millcroft Inn & Spa 55 John St.

in the Village of Alton-Caledon 519 941 8111

It was a magical day. My sister and I wanted to entertain our dear friend Evelyn. She is from South Africa and spends four months of the year here in Toronto. Her husband has a contract at the University of Toronto for several months each year. We so look forward to the time when they arrive. They need to return at the end of August and we are already weeping. My sister and I wanted to take Evelyn out for a tour in the countryside and for a special lunch. We couldn’t have picked a more magical spot. The old inn is the former home of Dods Knitting Mill dating back to 1881. The mill produced long woolen underwear in the days before central eating.

Today the Inn and Spa are situated on 100 acres of rolling hills near the town of Alton. The beautiful grounds are a popular spot for weddings and conferences. The spa provides luxury pampering for those who choose to come for a day or a short stay.

We took a scenic route along winding narrow roads along the Credit River. It is approximately an hour drive from Toronto. Breathtaking! The gardens of the Inn are spectacular. Best of all we were seated inside the small solarium room overlooking the magnificent waterfalls and gushing river. Every table sported a single white rose in a clear elegant vase.

Frances was our server and much more. She filled us in on the history of the place and was so helpful with our food selections. She really added to the pleasure of the day.

My sister and Evelyn ordered the Millcroft Grilled Cheese Sandwich.($19.00) It was like no other. A special Italian cheese was combined with warm grilled pears and served on brioche bread. The coleslaw was a tasty addition. The matchstick sweet potato frites were devoured in no time.

I ordered the Grilled Salmon.($21.00) The fish was perfectly prepared, tasty and moist. The presentation on the plate was so creative. I commented on the fresh beets. How can you get excited about beets? I have never tasted such a full bodied flavor. The green beans and fingerling potatoes were also fantastic. A pureed beet root garnish was the perfect added touch. My sister was tempted with the Chilled Lobster Roll with apple, tarragon bun and remoulade.($15.00)

Evelyn gave some consideration to the Pearl Barley Risotto. It is served with roasted root vegetables, Swiss chard and shaved Reggiano.($12.00)

We all agreed that the menu was creative and offered a variety of choices. We were informed that the menu changes often. Evelyn quickly noted that some of the teas on the menu are from South Africa.

We had such a good time that we didn’t realize how late it was. The afternoon tea crowd was starting to arrive. We stayed longer so we could savor the spread being enjoyed by the high tea patrons. Two young women were at the next table and we watched them enjoy a glass of sparkling wine. The three tiered dish held an assortment of finger sandwiches, scones and cream and tempting tarts and chocolate. I had the nerve to ask how much they thought they could eat.They plainly stated that they were there for enjoyment and every crumb was about to be devoured. I plan to return to participate in a high tea. Totally decadent! Totally scrumptious!

A drive in the country, divine food and good company. This was a very successful day. I need to explore the Millcroft Inn another time. Such a great visit deserves a return.

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