Where to eat in Belleville? Discover the best restaurants and cafes in Belleville, Ontario. From brunch spots to fine dining, find your next favorite place to eat!
When you think of foodie destinations in Ontario, places like Toronto or Prince Edward County might come to mind. But what if I told you that Belleville, Ontario, is quietly carving out its place on the culinary map? That’s right – this charming city is no longer just a pit stop on the way to somewhere else. Belleville’s vibrant food scene is brimming with hidden gems, offering everything from cozy brunch spots and trendy cafes to upscale restaurants and international flavors.
For years, Belleville’s culinary treasures have flown under the radar, but locals and savvy travelers know that this city punches far above its weight when it comes to amazing eats. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast, a fine dining connoisseur, or someone who loves discovering unique dishes in unexpected places, Belleville has something for every taste.
In this guide, we’ll uncover the best restaurants and cafes in Belleville, highlighting why this city deserves a spot on your foodie bucket list. So, let’s dive in and explore where to eat in Belleville – your taste buds are in for a treat!
Read More // Check out my guide on What to Do in Belleville at Christmas to make the most of your trip.
WHERE TO EAT IN BELLEVILLE?
Best Coffee Shops : Where to eat in Belleville
Benji’s Coffee Bar
Benji’s Coffee Bar, started as a pop-up coffee shop in a repurposed container at Zwicks Park. After 3 successful Summers, they decided to open shop permanently behind City Hall right in the heart of downtown Belleville. Since their opening in 2023, it has quickly become a local favorite. Housed in the historic Scale House, this rustic-industrial coffee bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for both residents and visitors. Their menu features expertly crafted lattes, house-made pastries, and specialty drinks that change with the seasons. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to relax or a quick caffeine fix, Benji’s Coffee Bar is a delightful addition to Belleville’s vibrant downtown scene.
THE DETAILS
When | They are open Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm and Saturday from 8am to 3pm
Where | 29 Market st
Website | You can check their website here.
The Brake Room
*The Brake room is currently closed. But hopefully it will reopen soon!
The Brake Room is a vibrant hub for community, coffee, and cycle culture. This unique spot combines a passion for specialty coffee with a love for cycling, creating a welcoming space for enthusiasts of both. Serving Pilot Coffee Roasters beans, The Brake Room is renowned for offering the best flat white in the Bay of Quinte region. Whether you’re a cyclist looking for a pit stop or someone seeking a cozy place to enjoy a quality brew, The Brake Room’s blend of community spirit and dedication to quality makes it a must-visit in Belleville.
THE DETAILS
When | They are open Monday to Friday from 7:30am to 3pm and Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 3pm
Where | 34 Dundas St. E
Website | You can check their website here.
Tropical Blend
Nestled in the heart of Belleville, Tropical Blends Café is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a celebration of fresh, healthy living. Founded by locals with a passion for community and wellness, this café was created to bring people together over wholesome, handcrafted food and drinks. With its tropical theme and lush, plant-filled decor, the café offers a serene escape, whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee or enjoying a leisurely smoothie bowl. The menu reflects their commitment to quality, featuring artisan smoothies, freshly brewed specialty coffees, and a rotating selection of house-made baked goods. A standout favorite is their smoothie bowls, packed with vibrant fruits and superfood toppings that are as nutritious as they are delicious.
THE DETAILS
When | They are open Wednesday to Saturday from 8am to 4pm, and Sunday from 8am to 2pm. It is closed on Monday and Tuesday.
Where | 322 Pinnacle Street
Website | You can check their website here.
Top Restaurants : Where to eat in Belleville
The Kafana
The Kafana is a family-owned restaurant that brings the rich flavors and traditions of the Balkan region to its guests. Inspired by numerous places, people, and moments—sometimes in kafanas around the world, other times around a village table at home—the idea for The Kafana was born. The name “kafana” refers to traditional Balkan taverns known for their warm, communal atmosphere and hearty, flavorful dishes. By embracing this concept, The Kafana offers a cozy environment where guests can enjoy authentic Eastern European cuisine, complemented by a selection of wines from the region. Whether you’re a fan of classic Serbian specialties or discovering new flavors, The Kafana provides a memorable culinary experience that reflects the heart and soul of Balkan dining.
THE DETAILS
When | They are open Wednesday to Saturday from 11am to 10pm, and Sunday from 11am to 2pm
Where | 199 Front Street # 101
Website | You can check their website here.
The Local Social House
The Local Social House is a vibrant gathering spot offering inspired cuisine crafted from fresh, local ingredients. Born from a desire for a community hub, it serves as a clubhouse for friends, family, and business clients. The establishment is committed to sourcing locally, proudly supporting Canadian farmers and promoting sustainable practices. With attentive service and a welcoming atmosphere, The Local Social House has become a cherished destination for those seeking a memorable dining experience. The restaurant celebrated its grand opening on April 14, 2023, marking the culmination of a two-year effort by a group of friends, business people, and dreamers who care deeply about their community. In the Summer, this restaurant has the best patio in town!
THE DETAILS
When | They are open Tuesday to Thursday from 12pm to 10pm, and Friday & Saturday from 11am to 11pm
Where | 211 Coleman Street
Website | You can check their website here.
The Lark
The Lark, situated in Belleville’s historic Downtown District, is a culinary gem that artfully blends creativity with timeless classics. The restaurant offers a modern yet friendly atmosphere, complemented by a menu that emphasizes locally sourced ingredients. Founded by Alex and Céline Bruce, The Lark has become a cornerstone of Belleville’s dining scene. Alex, a Certified Sommelier and award-winning bartender, brings his expertise to the establishment, offering handcrafted cocktails and a curated selection of natural, organic, and biodynamic wines. The couple’s journey began in Prince Edward County before settling in Belleville, where they have become strong supporters of the city’s burgeoning culinary scene. Whether you’re savoring a handcrafted cocktail or enjoying a thoughtfully prepared meal, The Lark provides a memorable dining experience that reflects the unique spirit of Belleville.
THE DETAILS
When | Wednesday to Saturday from 5pm to 9pm
Where | 104 – 199 Front Street
Website | You can check their website here.
Honorable mentions of where to eat in Belleville…
During my recent visit to Belleville, I had the pleasure of dining at several exceptional establishments. While I couldn’t experience all the recommended spots this time, I look forward to returning to try:
Small Scale Bread | A bakery that also serves as a coffee shop. This place was highly recommended to me by many people during and even after my visit.
Capers | A trendy restaurant on Front street. The have live music every Friday and Saturday nights.
Gourmet Diem | A cafe and gourmet food store. I hear this is the best place for brunch!
L’Auberge de France |Like a tiny slice of Paris in downtown Belleville. They have a coffee shop where you can try some homemade croissants.
Where to Eat in Belleville, Ontario: Final Thoughts
Belleville, Ontario, may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of foodie destinations, but this vibrant city is full of culinary surprises. From cozy coffee shops like Benji’s, The Brake Room, and Tropical Blends Café to unique restaurants that serve up mouthwatering dishes, Belleville has something to offer every kind of foodie. I hope that this blog post on where to eat in Belleville inspired you for your next visit!
Now it’s your turn—have you explored Belleville’s food scene? Did we miss one of your favorite spots? Drop your recommendations in the comments below and let’s keep the foodie conversation going!
* P.S. This adventure was part of a collab with Bay of Quinte Tourism but all opinions (and obsessions) are 100% mine!
READ THESE BEFORE VISITING MORE OF ONTARIO
ONTARIO GUIDES | The Ultimate Weekend in Beaver Valley ; The Best In and Around Niagara Falls : A Complete Guide; How to spend the Perfect Weekend in Bracebridge
ONTARIO TOP 10 | Top 11 Best Lookouts in Ontario
WHERE TO STAY IN ONTARIO | Tiny Stays: A Unique Stay in Prince Edward County; Spend the night with Alpacas at Haute Goat Farm
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Did you know you can tour Prince Edward County’s wineries in a vintage hippy van? 🚐🍷
Yep, it’s just as fun as it sounds.
Westy Wine Tours lets you customize your dream wine day in the cutest retro vans (yellow, blue, or pink, your pick!). I stopped at:
🍷 Traynor Vineyard for their famous wine slushy
🌸 Rosehall Run for a glass of their Pixie Rosé
🍹 Old Salt Cocktails for craft drinks, hot dogs, and a round of mini games
It’s the ultimate summer vibe : good wine, good company, and very aesthetic transportation.
💬 Which van are you choosing: yellow, blue, or pink?
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*invited*
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Planning a summer weekend in Bruce Peninsula? 🏕️🌊
Here’s your guide to make it iconic: turquoise waters, epic hikes, quiet beaches, and the cutest glamping stay.
Start in Tobermory with coffee and a boat tour, spend the night in a luxe tent at the Grotto Getaway, then hike to Lion’s Head Lookout (one of my fave views in all of Ontario). Finish with a beach day on the quieter side of the peninsula. — And a reminder that yes, Ontario can absolutely deliver on those summer getaway dreams. 💫
💾 Save this itinerary for your next long weekend in Bruce County!
👇 Been to the Bruce? What’s your must-do?
👇 Never been? What’s holding you back?
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This might just be the most beautiful stay in Ontario, and trust me, I’ve stayed in a lot of beautiful places. ✨
Aux Box in Muskoka is a dreamy off-grid cabin tucked in the forest… and it just got even better.
They’ve added a brand new Nordic spa setup: a cedar sauna, hot tub, and cold plunge, all surrounded by trees and birdsong.
It’s peaceful, cozy, and ridiculously aesthetic.
Perfect for a solo reset, a couples retreat, or a weekend escape where your only plan is to do nothing (in style). 🛁🔥❄️
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*collab*
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Everyone knows Algonquin, but did you know that just 30 minutes away, there’s a quieter park that’s still totally worth a visit? 🌲✨
Arrowhead Provincial Park might not have the same dramatic views as Algonquin, but it makes up for it with peaceful trails, cozy campsites, and way fewer crowds.
In the summer, you can see the Big Bend lookout, paddle on calm lakes, or unwind at your campsite surrounded by trees. In the fall, the colors are next-level. And in the winter? That forest ice skating trail is straight out of a movie. ❄️⛸️
💾 Save this mini guide for your next Ontario park day. Arrowhead deserves a spot on your list.
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👇 Been here already? Tell me your favorite Ontario park that flies under the radar!
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Did you know you can stand on ice that’s older than the pyramids? 🧊⛰️
The Columbia Icefield Adventure is one of the most iconic experiences in the Canadian Rockies, and one I’ll never forget. It’s more than just a stop on your road trip… it’s a wild ride through time.
The whole experience takes about 2.5 hours and includes:
🚍 A ride in a massive Ice Explorer up to the Athabasca Glacier
🧊 Time to walk on the glacier itself
🌉 A stop at the Glacier Skywalk, a glass-floored lookout 280 meters above Sunwapta Valley
Located between Jasper and Banff on the Icefields Parkway, this is one of those “if you’re even thinking about it, go!” kind of experiences.
💾 Save this post if you’re planning a trip to Alberta this summer and tag your road trip buddy below!
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