Blending farm-driven dining, culinary education, and charming accommodations, Waring House remains a cornerstone of the County’s food scene.
Member Spotlight: Waring House Restaurant and Inn
Prince Edward County has earned its reputation as one of Ontario’s most compelling food destinations. Wineries line its rural roads, farm stands punctuate the landscape from spring through late fall and chefs have built careers here on the strength of local ingredients and loyal, returning guests.
In the village of Picton, the Waring House Restaurant and Inn, a Rainbow Registered property, has become one of the region’s most enduring culinary anchors.
Set on a historic property dating back to the 19th century, Waring House functions as both country inn and full-service culinary destination. Its on-site dining restaurants — the fine-dining Amelia’s Garden and the Barley Room, a more casual pub-style option — reflect the County’s agricultural abundance. Led by Chef Jessie Insley, the focus remains on seasonal produce, regional wines, Ontario-raised meats, and menus that evolve with what is available locally.
This has earned Waring House the coveted Feast On Certification by the Culinary Tourism Alliance, which proves they are committed to sourcing Ontario grown and raised ingredients.
What further distinguishes Waring House is its long-standing commitment to culinary education. Through its Cookery School, guests can move beyond the dining room and into hands-on classes led by Executive Chef David Correa. Programs range from foundational technique to themed workshops that spotlight seasonal ingredients.
During the growing season, participants are given a tour of the on-site gardens and greenhouse where vegetables and fresh herbs are grown, ready to be used in restaurant dishes. Buzzing around, guests may also glimpse some of the happy bees from one of the 15 beehives installed on the property by a local beekeeper.
Staying overnight adds another layer to the experience. Guest rooms are spread across several historic houses on the property, offering a traditional inn atmosphere within a short distance of Picton’s shops and galleries. A culinary-focused getaway here is seamless: breakfast on-site, a day exploring wineries and farm markets, dinner back at the inn paired with County vintages.
For travellers exploring Prince Edward County’s food culture, Waring House brings together accommodation, dining, and culinary education on one property in Picton. In 2025, the Waring House received the Prince Edward County Business Excellence Award for Excellence in Sustainable Practices.
It remains one of the County’s established culinary addresses — inviting guests to taste, learn, and stay awhile.