Winter gets to the point where it feels like you have two options: give in to the desire to hibernate in a blanket burrito until spring or get out of the house, be social and try new things. Leaving the house in the winter doesn’t have to be all about bundling up and braving the elements (or it can be if that’s your jam—we do love a good hike around here). The Bay of Quinte region has a bunch of spots to hang out where you can still keep snug indoors.
The Lark
199 Front St, Belleville
Step out of the cold and into The Lark with a delicately handcrafted drink (Suburban Divorcée is my fav!) and share a plate of fresh sourdough and burrata, topped with seasonal fruit or vegetables. The bar at The Lark is my favourite spot to cozy up for a chat and delicious food.
Empire Theatre
321 Front St, Belleville
Get out of the house for some evening entertainment with the Quinte Film Alternative for their Great Movie Wednesdays, or catch a live show in the charming atmosphere of the Empire Theatre.
Pictured: Dining in a snowglobe at The Waterfront River Pub
Pictured: Northumberland Fine Food’s tasting lounge
Waterfront River Pub Snowglobes
22 Water St. W, Napanee
I can’t get enough of embracing the beauty of winter while keeping warm! The Waterfront River Pub snowglobes can be booked online at $35 per reservation, where you can enjoy dinner or a hot drink in a toasty warm snow globe with a 360° view of the outdoors.
Fool’s Kitchen
19A Market Square, Napanee
A mouthwatering addition to Greater Napanee, Fool’s Kitchen is an Asian fusion resto with flavourful bites. From pho to dumplings to ginger chicken, these delish plates will warm you right up when nothing else does the trick. The sleek decor and beautiful plating give the feel of big-city eats with small-town vibes.
Northumberland Fine Food
39 Richardson St, Brighton
The tasting lounge at Northumberland Fine Food has a warm and inviting atmosphere, topped off with live music and local beer and wine. You can watch a film during their Thursday Night Films, enjoy a live performance or order up a charcuterie board for your next hangout with friends.
Lighthouse Books
65 Main St, Brighton
Looking for the latest read from BookTok? Stop into Lighthouse Books, located in the heart of downtown Brighton. I always leave here with a good book (usually a new thriller) to snuggle up with after a good chat with the owners.
Pictured: Meyers Creek Brewing Company
Meyers Creek Brewing Company
60 Dundas St E, Belleville
Not just a place for beer, but for community. Meyers Creek serves up delicious brews and a good time—they also won Best Brewery in Best of the Bay 2024. From open mic to knitting classes, they’ll have you forgetting that it’s blustery and cold outside. My favourite is the Back Roads Vanilla Porter, perfect for a winter treat while catching up with friends!
The Brake Room
34 Dundas St E, Belleville
I enjoy spending a snowy afternoon at The Brake Room, chilling out at a window seat with a hot oat vanilla latte and a Flossie’s sammy while watching the busy streets outside. An inviting spot for any day of the year, but something about winter makes it extra special. v
Pictured: Meyers Creek Brewing Company
The Cardinal
56b Quinte St, Quinte West
Relatively new to the scene, but always a good time, The Cardinal hosts live music and events like karaoke, jazz night and open mics in their intimate environment. I highly recommend a pint of the Fat Tire beer and an order of sweet potato fries with spicy mayo.
Tyendinaga Tee Time
283 Hwy 49, Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory
Miss golfing, but not willing to lose a putter in the snow? Tyendinaga Tee Time has you covered (literally). Book a two-hour slot in the golf simulator to make the most of your time, and keep those swings on par!
