It’s true: staycationing might be the new norm for many, but that doesn’t mean you can’t appease your inner wanderlust! Instead of overpriced in-flight meals, eat and drink your way around the globe without leaving Vaughan – a mecca of delicious cuisines from around the world.
Start by sipping your way into cobblestoned Europe by enjoying a cup of java from Balzac’s Coffee Roasters. This multi-chain, Canadian roaster is the brainchild of Diana Olsen, whose appreciation for fine coffee and art come together at each of her locations. Paying homage to each host city’s history and culture through art and decor, Olsen has created a trendy location in Vaughan that will whisk you off to a European cafe without the delay at baggage claim.
Enjoy your coffee inside, on the patio, or take a stroll around the neighbourhood to fully immerse yourself in the tourist experience.
Now that you’re caffeinated, it’s time to explore the tastes of Japan by making the six-minute drive to Hibachi Teppanyaki & Bar for a lunch you won’t soon forget. By using a Teppanyaki grill – or an iron hot plate – Hibachi cooks a variety of meats and vegetables directly in front of guests, providing a multi-sensory experience that’s as appetizing to the eyes as it is to the belly.
In between meals, browse through a Parisian-style marketplace by making the five-minute drive to This Is Made, a one-of-a-kind boutique that supports local artisans, makers, and small businesses. Selling everything from handcrafted candles and kitchenwares to soaps, jewelry, and treats, it’s a brilliant way to support local artisans while exploring a sunny, Southern destination on foot.
Next: it’s dinnertime. Tantalize your tummy and feast your eyes on the flavours of Jamaica’s colourful plates at Orlando’s Restaurant & Grill. Transporting you to the Caribbean Islands, Orlando’s Restaurant and Grill offers a wide variety of delectable dishes including their famous jerk chicken, prepared with island spices and jerk seasoning, or curried goat that is simmered in herbs, Scotch Bonnet pepper and curry. Whatever you’re in the mood for, Orlando’s has you covered!
Soup-merge into one of Vaughan’s tastiest bowls found at Orlando’s Restaurant and Grill. A delicious blend of goat meat, green bananas, yam, dumplings, hot peppers, herbs, and island seasonings, Jamaican Mannish Water is sure to please.
Alternatively, make a detour to the heat of Mexico by diving into a tamale at Ay Caramba Eh! and experience the heat of the Mexican tamale at Ay Caramba Eh! – just a short eleven-minute drive. Known for its authentic Mexican cuisine, Ay Caramba Eh! infuses explosive flavours in each meal option, and when paired with the warm and comforting hospitality of the staff, you’ll be daydreaming of a week-long vacation in Mexico City in no time.
Lastly, enjoy the sweet tastes of Greece by driving over to Loukoumania Cafe where you can indulge in Greece’s famous dessert, loukoumades. These nugget-sized, deep-fried dough balls are dipped in honey and will undoubtedly take you back to sunny afternoons spent on the shores of Mykonos – what a delight!
Be sure to tag @visitvaughan on your travels and share your memories with us by using the hashtag #visitvaughan.
