Treadwell

Treadwell 61 Lakeport Road Port Dalhousie 905 934 9797

My sister and I were invited to lunch at Chuck and Brita’s fine estate in Saint Catherines. We sipped champagne and ate fantastic appetizers. At that point we were told that we would be their guests at the famous Treadwell restaurant. Brita’s daughter was married a year ago and the reception was held here. I recall enjoying one of the most divine meals ever. I can still remember the explosion of flavor from the Sticky Pudding. The restaurant advertises farm to table cuisine. It is much more than that. It is gourmet delicious and the presentation of each plate is very creative. They are noted to be one of the finest restaurants in Ontario.

Port Dalhousie is a charming village. It is on the water. It is fun to stroll on the main street and look at the shops. We could have dined outside on the patio. It is always lovely to sit outdoors and look at the water and the beautiful scenery. We opted for the quiet indoors.

We were warmly greeted by James Treadwell who continued to visit our table and make sure that we were comfortable and satisfied. Apparently many of the patrons at his fine establishment come from Toronto and even as far as Quebec. No wonder. Anyone with a fine palate will appreciate that this is a ‘cut above’ most restaurants. Treadwell is noted for the tasting menu. Do inquire. At lunch a 4 course meal is $40.00. It allows you to taste various dishes and have new culinary experiences.

On this occasion we were satisfied to have a light lunch before the drive back to Toronto. It was such fun to sit at the window and watch the young boys jumping from the bridge into the river below. We also enjoyed the bike riders who raced on the bridge over the river. There was much to see and a lot to discuss. Once the food came we found we were very quiet as we busily engaged in the fine art of great dining. Tomato Soup was the daily special.($6.00) I was tempted to order the Beet Salad composed of roasted heirloom beets and cherry salad with the best feta, dill and hazelnut vinaigrette.($14.00) Tomaotes is a salad composed of tree and twig heirloom tomatoes with Monforte Toscano and basil.($12.00)

My brother and sister were thinking alike on this day. They ordered the Soup and Sandwich special.($14.00) A small cup of that creamy fresh tomato soup was on a lovely large white platter. The sandwich was enormous. The healthy portion of ham and cheese was on freshly baked bread.

Brita enjoyed her Perch.$16.00) The fish was pan fried and served with a smoked bacon potato salad. A poached egg was nestled on the top of the portion.(16.00)

I did consider the Omelette,($!5.00) Free range eggs are cooked with smoked trout and arugula.($15.00)

I was very happy with my choice of Pasta.($18.00) The housemade pappardelle was perfectly al dente. It was so flavorful. Tree and Twig tomatoes with virgin canola oil added that little ‘zing of flavor.’ Little pieces of fried basil were immediately devoured with great satisfaction. It was an exquisite dish.

Treadwell is also noted for their fine catering. It is a delightful drive to experience a gourmet feast. The restaurant tries to purchase all the ingredients from within the area. The fruits and fine wines of Niagara are so accessible. Jason Williams is the chef de cuisine. He is a master at his art. Stephen Treadwell and his son James work so hard to maintain the finest standard.