Treadwell's

I have just returned from the finest wedding possible in a little stone church on the grounds of Ridley College in St Catherines. The bride was beautiful. The groom was so happy and adorable. The mother of the bride was glowing. Her partner (my brother) was so handsome. The music was divine.

The reception was held in this phenomenal restaurant facing the water in the charming Port Dalhousie. This little town has a buzz. It is small but has quaint shops and little bistros. The street was alive and had a positive energy. It is so close to Niagara On The Lake. I had no idea that such perfection of food was available in this area. The ambiance is charming. The service was beyond excellent.

I would not have thought it possible to serve 100 people such picture perfect, fantastic tasting food. The restaurant advertises a farm to table philosophy. On the back of the Brunch Menu a list of suppliers is presented. I found it fascinating. Many of the ingredients come from the neighboring area. For example, the Persall Natural’s Ltd of Jordan provides the 100 % cold pressed canola and soy bean oil. Whitty Farms provides some of the most delicious fruit and vegetables from the family owned farm just 15 minutes from the restaurant. Herbanity is the home for the herbs that are grown in this area.

The appetizers were plentiful and very delicious. They were passed around during cocktail hour by a very efficient, warm, young staff. We were all in anticipation of the meal ahead as we proceeded to the beautifully decorated tables with individual little boxes of chocolates. All the tables faced out to the water.

The first course was Roasted Beet Salad with a Goat Cheese Tartlet. It looked too good to eat. After the first bite there was no stopping.

A second course of Seared Lake Erie Pickerel was beautifully presented on individual large white platters. The servers explained all the ingredients and were so attentive throughout the whole evening.

The main course was a slow cooked (13 hours) Beef Ribs with leeks and fresh vegetables.

We were all full at this stage but the dessert was the ‘piece de resistance’. Sticky Pudding was served in ball form on a large platter with a caramel cream sauce. Ice cream topped the creation. I have no problem stating that this was the best dessert that I have ever experienced.

As we were leaving the magnificent wedding cake of a Gateau St Honore was served. Can you believe it?

I checked out the menus to see what is available on a regular service. Sunday Brunch will get me a return visit to this happy spot. The menu is extensive and provides a variety of choices.

A Free Range Egg Omelette with ‘Frankies Asparagus’ is served with a simple salad.($12.00) Citrus Smoked Lake Trout on toasted brioche is served with goat cheese and sauce Gribiche.($16.00)

At dinner you can order from the extensive menu or opt for a Tasting Menu. 3 courses are available for $56.00. A Vegetarian Menu is provided at $45.00 A 6 course menu is $80.00 0 or $130.00 with wine. I should add that wines of the area were served and we were thrilled with fine quality and taste.

Treadwell’s is an adventure in the finest dining.