As the days grow colder, a new kind of warmth arises in the form of twinkling lights, cozy scarves and a big dash of holiday cheer. You can’t help but smile while walking along snow-laden streets past rows of homes that have decked the halls both inside and out. Along the crisp breeze that accompanies the season, a delicious aroma wafts by your nose. That familiar mix of sugar, spice and everything nice! For a treat that will warm you right to your core, follow that scent and indulge in these cozy cafes and pubs in York Durham Headwaters!
To kickstart your day of embracing the festive spirit, a visit to a warm, inviting cafe is a must – which is exactly what you’ll find at The Roost Cafe in King City. You’ll feel as though you’re visiting a friend for coffee as you step inside this gorgeous century home. Bask in the natural light as it pours in while sipping on a holiday favourite like their delectable gingerbread latte. Whether you pop in just for a beverage or enjoy a tasty treat as well as a meal, you’re guaranteed to enjoy sustenance that’s good for the soul. The team at The Roost Cafe is not only committed to utilizing as many local ingredients as they can, but they empower local youth through job opportunities and a stellar community space. This certainly adds an extra level of warmth to their offerings!
For another dose of homey holiday vibes, head to The Toasted Walnut in Bowmanville. You can’t help but feel cozy as you settle in at one of their tables, surrounded by exposed brick and a modern farmhouse atmosphere. That comfort will continue from within as every item on the menu is created fresh in-house from their tasty pastries and decadent squares down to the bread and salad dressings! There’s no question you’ll be fuelled mind, body and soul at this full-service restaurant and bakery. Not to mention The Toasted Walnut also features a market section where you’ll find everything from homemade jams to meat pies to vegan stews so you can enjoy these hearty tastes in your own home!
However, if you’re looking for the perfect festive village setting, Unionville is the place to go as they go all out for the holidays! While you’re here, be sure to pop into The Village Grocer. It’s a truly one-of-a-kind local business as all their homemade items stem from family recipes… from co-owner Cathy’s mom to be specific! Their fresh free-range turkeys will take your Christmas dinner to the next level, along with their famous jelly rolls and rich chocolate ganache desserts. When the winter chill sets in, pop by their cafe to enjoy piping hot and delicious coffee alongside their seasonal wraps and sandwiches made fresh daily.
Cafes aren’t the only spot for some yuletide warmth in York Durham Headwaters! If you’re looking for a change of pace, these pubs in YDH will certainly make you feel as though you’ve wandered into the set of a Hallmark movie!
Make your way to The Schomberg Pub where this historic home dating back to the 1800s has been given a new life, and a very lively one at that! Located on Main Street in the heart of Schomberg, it’s the perfect spot to fuel up for a day of embracing the holiday magic. Each room is bursting with its own unique charm as you settle in for hearty eats to keep you toasty. Pub fare is king here so sink your teeth into their beer battered fish and chips, pub fried perogies or their iconic deep friend portobello mushroom topped Schomburger. Be sure to pop by some of the local shops before you depart. After all, you’re in one of the top Hallmark Holiday Towns in YDH!
The next destination on this list of our top holiday hangouts in York Durham Headwaters is located in Port Perry. After spending an afternoon appreciating all of the yuletide cheer the town has to offer, a visit to The Port Social is a must. Located right next door to the incredible international fare you’ll find at Marwan’s Global Bistro, it’s the perfect spot to tickle your tastebuds with intercontinental eats. Enjoy a full meal or dabble in some of their lighter fare over a round of cocktails while enjoying the tunes from talented local musicians.
For an elegant rural getaway without the pretentious atmosphere, the Mono Cliffs Inn has been providing the picture-perfect holiday experience for over 30 years. Enjoy an incredible dinner in this rustic setting that you won’t believe is just 15 minutes north of downtown Orangeville! Settle in for an intimate dinner date in the main dining room or head downstairs to Peter Cellar’s Pub. Here you’ll find savoury pub eats for every palate as well as one of the best Scotch collections in the area which will certainly warm you to your core! Or if you’re looking for the perfect space for an intimate gathering with family and friends, their stunning Wine Cellar is the perfect setting to craft some holiday memories you’ll never forget.
Last but certainly not least, you’ll find the final gem on this list in the town of Rosemont. The Globe Restaurant was built in 1859 as a stagecoach stop and while it has undergone extensive renovations, it’s still bursting with historic charm. Indulge in fresh seasonal fare sourced locally whenever possible next to one of the original fireplaces. Or, head upstairs where you can dine amongst walls of literature within the library. For those looking for a truly unique experience, head to their speakeasy lounge and sink into one of their cushy armchairs as you watch the snow fall outside the window.
Now the big question is, which of these fine establishments will you visit first? Or for those looking to embrace the festive spirit as much as possible, a visit to each of these destinations will ensure a memorable holiday season.
