Our trips often offer a blend of planned delights and pleasant surprises. A recent visit to Stratford, Ontario, proved to be just such an experience, combining renowned theatrical performances with a discovery of local charm and excellent cuisine.
Thursday: A Smooth Start to the North
Our journey began with an easy departure from the airport around 3 PM, transitioning smoothly through security. We grabbed some tortas from Frontera before an unexpected flight upgrade, although we were seated separately. Upon arrival, a brief mix-up with our car was quickly resolved. The drive to Kitchener, our initial stop, was straightforward. We settled in at The Walper Hotel and enjoyed a late dinner at Damera, where we were the only guests apart from some friends who were hanging out.
Friday: Stratford’s Welcoming Embrace
Friday commenced with a surprisingly good room service breakfast. We then made the drive to Stratford, a town that instantly exudes a welcoming atmosphere. Our first local stop was for coffee at Balzac’s, followed by lunch at YSK Bistro. We checked into The Windsor Hotel, our base for the next few days. The afternoon was spent with a pleasant walk around the river and through the Shakespeare gardens, soaking in the town’s serene beauty.
Later, we enjoyed a pre-game drink at Brch & Wyn before heading to Bijou for dinner. The meal was excellent, marking a fantastic start to our culinary exploration of Stratford.
Saturday: Dramatic Impressions and Culinary Refinements
Saturday began at a relaxed pace. We had breakfast at The Old Man before wandering around both sides of the river, enjoying the quiet charm of the town. The highlight of the day was attending Richard III – the performance was impactful and impressive.
After the show, we enjoyed drinks at Elizabeth on Waterloo. Dinner was at The Prune, a truly lovely experience. The meal included a rich lobster bisque, perfectly prepared duck confit, a flavorful wagyu steak, and for dessert, a decadent chocolate-peanut bar and roasted peach. A 2011 Saint Emilion wine accompanied our dinner.
Sunday: A Leisurely Departure
Our final morning in Stratford began with coffees and a pastry from Revel. We checked out of the hotel and moved our car, ensuring a smooth departure. Before heading out of town, we walked through the open-air market, enjoying the local atmosphere, and concluded with more coffee at Revel.
Stratford offered a perfect blend of engaging theater, delightful dining, and moments of quiet reflection, leaving us with a lasting appreciation for its unique charm.
Note: generated by Google Gemini from Chris’ notes
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