simply sitting down together for a meal and tasty beverage. Whether you’re from the area or looking for fun places to go out while in town, these Kitchener/ Waterloo restaurants will have you thinking: “this and not having to do the dishes”!

Wildcraft Grill and Long Bar– King St. N

Wood paneled with mid-century modern furnishings and large booths to accommodate groups, Wildcraft has a classy, yet casual environment. The food ranges from salads to sushi, burgers, sandwiches, and steaks. In addition, they have menus specific to dietary restrictions such as plant-based and gluten free. Extravagant desserts on the menu include a tropical flavoured phyllo-crust cheesecake, a triple layer chocolate cake, and lavender creme brulee. At Wildcraft, even the side dishes are packed with flavour. The Black Truffle Mashed Yukon Potatoes will have you questioning all of your past mashed potato experiences. 

Let’s not forget– they are also a bar. At the centre of Wildcraft is a giant glass wine cellar, flanked by bartending stations and long bar tables, from which draught beer and cocktails are served. Most of their beers come from within Ontario, though a few are imports from Europe. The cocktail list includes Wildcraft spins on classics like the Old Fashioned and Caesar, as well as original drinks, and options with low ABV or no alcohol. Many of their flavour combinations involve berries and/or spices; the perfect palate cleanser for a savoury dinner.

Casa Rugatino Italian and Wine Bar, Belmont Ave.

Family owned for more than 40 years, Casa Rugatino is a beloved part of Belmont Village on the border of Kitchener and Waterloo. The ambiance inside is rustic and warmly lit, and outdoor seating is also available in the warmer months. Serving up traditional Italian fare, their appetizers include seafood bites, caprese, arancini, and antipasto with fresh olives, meat, and cheese. For dinner, you can opt for a plate of pasta, pizza, or fresh salad. If you’re looking for more protein-forward mains instead, they also specialize in fish, veal, and chicken parmesan.

In terms of their bar, wine is the specialty. 36 different varieties are offered, with many available by the glass or by the bottle. Casa Rugatino also serves beer, classic cocktails, wine-based cocktails such as sangria, and alcoholic coffee drinks. All in all, the perfect Italian evening can be had from Kitchener at this festive local establishment.

Don Julio Tacos and Tequila, King St. W

The name of this restaurant really tells you what you need to know, but we’ll go into a little more detail. At Don Julio, you can eat a full meal of Mexican delights: barbacoa, street corn, yucca fries, ceviche, guacamole– or any combination of their 9 taco varieties, which use house-made corn tortillas. With an open kitchen and outdoor patio, the dining experience is stimulating and exciting. Reviewers especially love the fish tacos, the friendly staff, and the festive energy. 

A great place to drink, Don Julio offers beer, cocktails, a large tequila menu, and flavoured margaritas. They run multiple discount nights per week, with 2 dollars off of margaritas on Wednesdays, and 2 dollars off tequila and mezcal shots on Thursdays. If the thought of a pineapple wedge and Tajin rim speaks to you, it’s a sign to pay this place a visit.