Best Contemporary Canadian Restaurants in St. Catharines

The best meal, service, and all round dining experience we’ve ever had. Hats off to the whole Alo team.

Great atmosphere, incredible menu and the staff was friendly and welcoming. Definitely adding this to my list of top tier restaurants. Food was 10/10. Every ingredient worked harmoniously with each other and you could tell it was carefully created to make an ultimate dining experience. Their non-alcoholic options are next level. Got the virgin espresso martini and it was unique. It took a few sips to get a sense of the flavour profile but it was really good. The staff was great. Our server was very friendly, informative and helpful when going over the menu. He checked in after each dish and made sure we were taken care of. Our reservation was right when they opened for dinner. We had a great view overlooking Toronto and the atmosphere was quiet and quite peaceful. I would gladly dine here again and will recommend it to my friends and family. Thank you to everyone at The Canoe for such a great experience.

We purchased the 3-course meal package from the hotel prior to our visit and it was truly a good value. The quality of food was excellent: we had the appetizers of foie gras and crispy shrimp first followed by tenderloin of beef and arctic char then cheesecake crème brûlée and fresh fruit. Everything tasted perfectly cooked and flavoured. The restaurant ambiance was beautiful, overlooking the water with its sparkling lights and elegant decor inside. Service from Rose was efficient and pleasant. Highly recommended!

Very nice place. Liked the shareable plates and the classic spaghetti.

Vela has been on the list of places to visit for some time. Since Marvin left 7Enoteca in Oakville and took the helm at Vela, we have wanted to get round to check it out. Fortunately today we were able to dine at Vela and it did not disappoint! (Other than Marvin not being in for todays service). The environment is stunning. The food is amazing. The service was attentive. (Many thanks Sandy, not only on the food advice, but the wine advice as well!) We thoroughly enjoyed the evening and look forward to returning to try the tasting menu at the counter. That type of experience is right up our alley!