There is sameness about towns and villages in Ontario, but a warm familiar sameness.
Recently I went to the town of Almonte 46 kilometers southwest of Ottawa. A once thriving wool mill town it now relies on tourism. A friend had recommended a place there for lunch. I was taking my daughter out for her birthday. What a delight as we entered 14 Mill Street. The Creperie, a French restaurant that specializes in well – crepes – was situated immediately to our right, and stretching before us on either side boutiques, an art gallery and other enticing shops.
We sat at a table for two by the window. Across the street, we peered out and saw the magnificent stone building of the ‘Old Mill House.’ In addition, back to its right we watched shafts of sunlight dancing in the waterfalls that cascaded over stone steps.
Viewing the menu I recall reading, pine-nuts, roasted walnuts, goat cheese, duck, chicken, salmon, scallop, leeks, apples and parsnips and so on, plus fresh salads. Confessions, I cannot remember what went into each crepe, but I know the one I ordered was stuffed with duck among other goodies and a spoonful of blueberries sat atop.
After lunch we browsed the stores and peeked into the old mill house, which houses another restaurant, and as my daughter said, next time!
There are other towns like Almonte. I remember visiting Elora Gorge and the mill restaurant there, and charming St Mary’s in southern Ontario. I take my hat off to the residents who have made their towns into attractive and interesting places for tourists.