Fall Foodie Picks in the Greater Golden Horseshoe
Published: Sep 18, 2025
There’s something magical about autumn in the Greater Golden Horseshoe. The crisp air, the golden-hued leaves, and the comforting tastes of the season create the perfect backdrop for a foodie adventure. And what’s better than experiencing it all effortlessly with GO Transit?
This season, hop aboard a GO train or bus and savour the flavours of fall across Toronto, Hamilton, Niagara, Barrie, Burlington, and Kitchener. With flexible and budget-friendly fare options, such as the GO+WEGO Combo Ticket, Weekday Group Pass, the $10 One-Day Weekend Pass, and Kids GO Free, GO Transit makes it easier than ever to explore and indulge with friends and family.
Consider taking UP Express for a stress-free and comfortable travel from Pearson Airport to Union Station in downtown Toronto and popular tourist destinations in the city.
Picture it now: a brisk autumn day, a warm latte in hand, and a bustling market or brewery waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a farmers' market lover, or a seeker of gourmet, locally-sourced meals, there’s a stop for everyone. Let’s map out your fall foodie adventure across the Greater Golden Horseshoe!
Fall Foods in Toronto
Toronto, the beating heart of the Greater Golden Horseshoe, bursts with fall foodie hotspots perfect for autumn indulgence. This season, a mix of trendy venues and timeless favourites awaits.
Steamwhistle Brewery
Located in the iconic Roundhouse, Steamwhistle Brewery is much more than a place to grab a pint. Fall is the perfect time to sip on their refreshing, yet hearty, Pilsner and take a brewery tour to learn about their sustainable brewing practices. The industrial-meets-cozy aesthetic makes it an ideal spot to spend the evening. Their Biergärten serves snacks that pair amazingly with their craft beers, and the views of the Toronto skyline are simply spectacular.
Plus, you can save with PRESTO Perks! Use code PRESTO20 at checkout or show your PRESTO card onsite to save 20% on tours. And, show your PRESTO card in the Tap Room to receive 15% off Steam Whistle merchandise (in-store only, not applicable for food & beverages).
Chefs Hall
Chefs Hall is every foodie’s dream, especially in the autumn when the city’s finest chefs incorporate seasonal ingredients into their already stellar offerings. This food hall showcases cuisines from around the globe, served with a modern flair. Imagine tucking into warm bowls of ramen, hearty tacos, or a steaming plate of fresh pasta – all while surrounded by the hum of a busy, energetic dining space. It’s the epitome of Toronto’s eclectic dining culture.
St. Lawrence Market
A Toronto institution, the St. Lawrence Market is the perfect destination to truly savour autumn. Rows of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and local preserves await you. Vendors celebrate the season with treats like pumpkin scones, spiced apple pies, and savoury autumn soups. Grab a hot cup of cider and wander through this fall foodie haven. If you’re planning a fall feast back home, you’ll find everything you need right here.
Downsview Park Merchants Market & Farmers Market
Nestled in one of Toronto’s urban green spaces, Downsview Park’s Merchants and Farmers Market is a hub of multicultural flavours and fresh seasonal produce. You’ll find everything from homemade preserves to international dishes that reflect the vibrant diversity of the city. Autumn is the perfect time to shop here for crisp apples, butternut squash, and delicious fall baked goods.
Fall Foods in Burlington
Burlington offers a mix of small-town charm and culinary sophistication, making it a must-visit for fall flavours. You can also take in the beauty of Lake Ontario and find many other things to do in bustling Burlington!
Nickel Brook Brewing Co. Tap Room
Autumn and craft beer go hand in hand, and Nickel Brook Brewing Co. knows how to do it right. Known for their experimental brewing, this local gem offers a wide variety of beers. The warm, inviting taproom is the perfect spot to relax on a crisp fall day. For non-beer drinkers, their small-batch sodas are equally delightful.
Burlington Centre Lions Farmers Market
The Burlington Centre Lions Farmers Market is a seasonal treasure. Locally grown seasonal produce like crisp apples, delicious baked goods, and artisan cheeses fill the stalls. Families will enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, complete with warm cider tastings and the chatter of local farmers. It's open every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 8 am to 2 pm until October 25, so get there while you still can. Supporting local doesn’t get much tastier than this!
Fall Foods in Hamilton
Hamilton’s food scene is experiencing a resurgence, and when it comes to fall flavours, this city truly shines. With some innovative local breweries and a farmers' market open all year round, you can have a perfect foodie day in Hamilton!
Merit Brewing
Located in the heart of downtown Hamilton, Merit Brewing crafts not just remarkable beers but also an experience. Their menu of shareable plates pairs beautifully with their inventive brews. They often get creative with seasonal beer offerings, so whether you gravitate towards hoppy IPAs or prefer malt-forward stouts, you’re in for a treat. The addition of hearty fall-inspired dishes, such as their signature sausages, makes this a perfect stop on a chilly afternoon.
Collective Arts
What could be better than sipping craft beer while admiring striking artwork? Collective Arts Brewery combines these two passions. The Beergarden + Beerhall is the perfect spot to enjoy a drink with friends, rain or shine. They offer a selection of food from Mel’s Deli who puts a fresh, global spin on deli classics. Plus, their beer cans, covered in artwork by local creatives, are as beautiful as the drinks are tasty.
Hamilton’s Farmers’ Market
Over 180 years of history make the Hamilton Farmers’ Market an institution. With fresh meats, cheeses, baked goods, and seasonal produce, this market exudes charm. Even better, it’s open year-round on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Fall brings fresh pumpkin, apple pies, and produce. Pair these treats with a steaming cup of coffee or apple cider as you stroll through this historic space!
Fall Foods in Niagara
Niagara is renowned for its picturesque scenery, featuring Niagara Falls. However, the food and drink scene is the perfect pairing for your adventures in the Niagara area! From breweries to scenic restaurants, Niagara is perfect for fall foodies.
Niagara Brewing Company
Take in the excitement of Clifton Hill while enjoying a craft beer at the Niagara Brewing Company. Warm up with a roasted malt ale or a spiced porter, and fuel your adventures with their delicious food. This brewery aims to brew beers that proudly represent Canada’s brewing heritage and today’s innovative craft beer scene!
Queen Victoria Place Restaurant
Delicious food with a view? Head to the Queen Victoria Place Restaurant to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. With panoramic views of the Niagara Falls and casual pub-style fare with fresh, local ingredients, it’s the perfect end to your day.
Table Rock House Restaurant
With its prime location overlooking the Horseshoe Falls, Table Rock House creates a dining experience as memorable as the scenery. Featuring locally sourced ingredients and an extensive Ontario wine list, this spot perfectly captures the essence of Niagara. Their seasonal menu highlights rich, hearty dishes like roasted root vegetables paired with succulent proteins.
Fall Foods in Barrie
Barrie’s abundance of fall activities makes it an easy, worthwhile trip. The city’s warm and welcoming atmosphere is complemented by its vibrant culinary scene, which truly comes alive during the fall months! From the bustling farmers’ market to cozy eateries, Barrie offers the perfect backdrop for fall flavours.
Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery
At Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery, whimsy and quality come together in perfect harmony. This local gem captivates visitors with bold, innovative beers and playful décor that makes every visit memorable. Create your perfect tasting experience with a custom flight of four 5 oz. pours or sample their brewery exclusive Minds Craft Seltzers. Pair your drinks with their curated food menu, featuring dishes designed to complement their unique brews. Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast or simply looking for a fun night out, Flying Monkeys delivers an experience that's anything but ordinary.
B’Spoke Kitchen & Market
This fall, experience B'Spoke Kitchen & Market in downtown Barrie, where you can tailor your meal by mixing and matching dishes from a variety of concepts, either in their stylish restaurant or through their virtual marketplace for cozy dining at home. The signature B'Side Bar offers handcrafted cocktails with fresh ingredients, complemented by quality wines, beers, and an inspired, approachable menu, delivering sophisticated yet welcoming dining.
Barrie Farmers’ Market
With over 170 years of history, the Barrie Farmers' Market is a cherished Saturday tradition, especially vibrant during harvest season. From 9 am to 1 pm, visitors can browse stalls filled with seasonal bounty like squash, crisp local apples, and fresh maple syrup, alongside warm artisanal breads, handcrafted preserves, and unique crafts. More than just a place to shop, the market offers a welcoming community atmosphere and a true taste of Ontario’s autumn.
Fall Foods in Kitchener
Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest
Autumn in Kitchener wouldn’t be complete without the famed Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest, from September 26 to October 18, 2025. Celebrate all things Bavarian with mugs of frothy beer and traditional German fare like bratwurst, schnitzel, potato pancakes, and pretzels. Add a slice of warm apple strudel to round off your meal. The lively atmosphere and time-honoured traditions make this a fall foodie experience you won’t forget.
All aboard the GO train to K-W Oktoberfest Willkommen Platz event! Join the fun on October 11, 2025, with special service on GO’s Kitchener Line to the K-W Oktoberfest Willkommen Platz. Grab your LederGOsen Line Ticket for a round-trip fare to Kitchener and exclusive VIP lounge access at the event.
Get Ready for Your Fall Foodie Adventure
The Greater Golden Horseshoe is a feast of flavours and fall delights. Thanks to GO Transit’s affordable and flexible services, you don’t need to limit yourself to just one destination. Take advantage of the $10 One-Day Weekend Pass for weekend adventures, plan a weekday outing with the Weekday Group Pass, use the GO+WEGO Combo Ticket for your Niagara trip, or enjoy worry-free travel with kids 12 and under who ride free. Wherever the season takes you, GO Transit ensures your foodie adventures are accessible, easy, and enjoyable. Autumn only lasts so long, so gather your loved ones, hop aboard, and savour every bite of the season!
Land Acknowledgement
Metrolinx acknowledges that we connect communities by building and operating transit within the traditional lands of the Anishinaabe, the Haudenosaunee and the Huron-Wendat peoples, for whom these lands continue to have great importance.
Treaties between First Nations and governments cover these lands, and the promises contained in these Treaties remain relevant to this day.
Metrolinx and its employees are committed to understanding the history of these lands and the continued impacts of colonization and take responsibility for actions to advance reconciliation.
Metrolinx will continue to seek the knowledge, expertise and experience of Indigenous partners and commits to doing business in a manner that is built on a foundation of trust, respect, and collaboration.