County Epicurious: A Wanderer’s Delight

Our article is a collaboration between The Gourmet Host and County Epicurious. Founded by Marie Greatrix and Lindsay Hepburn, County Epicurious connects visitors to PEC’s hidden culinary gems through guided Wandering tours and curated Boxes of local products.

County Epicurious’s Wandering tours showcase everything from bustling Prince Edward County markets to charming specialty shops. They offer a behind-the-scenes look at the producers who make PEC so special. Business owners range from multi-generational farmers to newcomers who have swapped city life in Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal for The County’s charm and signature warmth.

They also sell curated Boxes filled with The County’s finest products. These include selections of shelf stable goods from local purveyors. Orders can be picked up in person or shipped across Canada and the U.S.

By promoting gastronomic tourism through tours and curated Boxes, County Epicurious supports PEC’s vibrant community of farmers, chefs, and artisans.

We are grateful for this opportunity to work with Marie and Lindsay. Both share our vision of building community around exceptional culinary experiences.

Photo Credits: Lindsay Hepburn, County Epicurious

The Culinary Treasure Hunt

Now, embark on a culinary treasure hunt through Prince Edward County with our mapped guide of 20 of the many must-visit spots in alphabetical order. These destinations showcase The County’s vibrant food and artisanal culture. They offer farm-to-table ingredients, unique kitchen accessories, and fresh finds from weekly farmers markets in Prince Edward County. Whether you’re gathering supplies for a Thanksgiving feast or simply exploring the rich flavors of PEC, each stop on this map has something special to offer.

Fifteen of these stops feature farm-to-table ingredients, reflecting PEC’s strong commitment to quality and sustainability. You’ll find an abundance of fresh produce, meats, eggs, honey, artisanal cheeses, preserves, and specialty items that capture the essence of The County’s agricultural heritage. For those looking to add a unique touch to their kitchen, three stops also offer handcrafted culinary accessories and kitchen supplies that bring local charm to your dining experience.

To complete the experience, our map also includes two weekly Prince Edward County farmers markets in the heart of Prince Edward County. The Wellington Farmers Market is open Saturdays from 9:00 am to 1:00pm. And the Picton Town Hall Farmers Market is open Sundays from 9:00am- 2:00pm. Here the community gathers May through October to celebrate the freshest produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. 

Each of these 20 stops tells a story of dedication, craftsmanship, and a love for the land that makes The County so special. Use this map as your guide to discover hidden gems. Meet the passionate purveyors and gather everything you need for an unforgettable farm-to-table experience at home.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just beginning your culinary journey, this treasure hunt will inspire you to bring The County’s good food into your kitchen.

PEC has always been a special place. Everyone is invited to respectfully explore its rich heritage and meet the people who keep it thriving. But please be mindful when visiting these purveyors. Many are working farms where families live, so plan your visits during appropriate hours. Avoid parking on neighbors’ property and watch out for pets and children who may be playing nearby.

The Agrarian Market to Honey Pie Hives	Lighthall Vineyards to Return to Earth Farm	Savon Du Bois to Zest Kitchen Shop
(1) The Agrarian Market (Market Store) 4 Lake St, Picton Store Made Items & Variety of Finds from Across PEC Treasure: Charcuterie Platter	(8) Lighthall Vineyards (Market Store) 308 Lighthall Road, Milford Varieties of Gourmet Cheese & Wine Treasure: Sheep’s Milk Cheese	(15) Savon Du Bois (Market Store) 202 Main St W, Picton Hydrosol Skincare & Fragrances Treasure: Hydrosol
(2) Carson's Garden Market (Market Store) 1317 Wilson Rd, Prince Edward Herbs, Spices, & Flowers Treasure: Fresh Bouquet	(9) Loha Farms / 127 Bees (Call Ahead) 153 Lucks Crossroad, Picton Maple Syrup, Honey, Bee Pollen Treasure: Award Winning Honey	(16) Vicki's Veggies (Farm Stand) 81 Morrison Point Rd, Black River Vegetables, Home Grown & From Other Farmers Treasure: Outdoor Baby Arugula
(3) Creasy's Apple Dabble Family Farm (Farm Stand) 3091 County Rd 8, Prince Edward Apples, Blueberries, & Other Fruit Treasure: 20 Varieties of Apples	(10) Loyalist Jams (Text Ahead) 1238 County Road 17 Jams, Sauces, Baked Goods Treasure: Cranberry Products	(17) The Ye11ow Studio (Market Store) 281 Main St W, Picton Pottery, Dishes, Bowls, Mugs, & More Treasure: Handmade Serving Bowls
(4) Edwin County Farms (Call Ahead) 2590 County Rd 15, Picton Livestock, Veggies, Maple Syrup Treasure: Hakurei Turnips	(11) Opa's Acres (Farm) 414 County Rd 28, Belleville Poultry Farm Treasure: Pasture Raised Turkey	(18) Zest Kitchen Shop (Market Store) 192 Main St, Picton Cooking Supply Store, All Goodies & Gadgets for Your Kitchen Treasure: Festive Table Setting
(5) The Elmbrook Farm (Call Ahead) 339 Elmbrook Road, Picton Microgreens, Field Vegetables, Sourdough Baked Goods, Honey Treasure: Variety of Microgreens	(12) Paper Kite Farms (Farm Stand) 212 Prince Edward County Rd 16, Black River Asian Vegetables, Dumplings, Sauces, & More Treasure: Variety of Dumplings	Wellington Farmers' Market 15786 Loyalist Parkway, Wellington Saturdays from 9:00am to 1:00pm May through October
(6) Hannah Melnyk Makes (Market Store) 18639 Loyalist Pkwy, Hillier PEC Pottery, Bowls, Plates, & More Treasure: Handmade Dinnerware	(13) Portico Gardens (Farm Stand) 1465 Prince Edward County Rd 2, Bloomfield Dehydrated & Freeze Dried Garlic, Garlic Blossoms, Variety of Veggies Treasure: Famous Black Garlic	Picton Town Hall Farmers' Market 2 Ross St, Picton Sundays from 9:00am to 2:00pm May through October
(7) Honey Pie Hives & Herbals (Farm Stand) 705 County Rd. 24 (Point Petre Rd.) Herbs, Spices, Honey, Mead, Candles, Teas, Seasonings, & More Treasure: Mead, The Drink of Kings	(14) Return to Earth Farm (Farm Stand) 1418 County Rd 8, Prince Edward Meat, Eggs, Maple Syrup, Bone Broth Treasure: Rabbit	Share your favorite treasure from Princed Edward County HERE —we’d love to hear your story!

Disclosure: The businesses featured in this article contributed a one-time fee to support its production and marketing. These contributions enable The Gourmet Host to share unique stories that inspire community, connection, and memorable dining experiences in your own home.

A Closer Look at PEC’s Culinary Gems

To bring you even closer to the heart of Prince Edward County, we’ve profiled six local growers from our list of 20 of the many must-visit destinations. These farmers embody the spirit of PEC with their dedication to sustainable practices, unique products, and deep roots in the community. Each profile offers a glimpse into the passion and hard work that make these producers—and the ingredients they grow—truly special.

From multigenerational farmers who’ve nurtured the land for centuries to newcomers embracing The County’s charm, these profiles celebrate the diversity and commitment found in PEC’s agricultural community. You’ll discover the stories behind their farms, what makes their products unique, and even a favorite recipe or preparation tip to inspire your own Thanksgiving feast.

Join us on this journey through PEC’s rich agricultural landscape, and get to know the people who make it all possible. Their dedication to quality and love for the land are sure to add a personal touch to your farm-to-table celebrations this season.

Edwin County Farms

Edwin County Farms, owned and operated by Lucas and his family, started as a labor of love when they purchased a 680-acre farm located on the north shore of Prince Edward County in the early 2000s. The land, once a thriving farm, had largely been reclaimed by nature, with overgrown fields, snaking stone walls, and a remote, barely navigable landscape sloping down to the Bay of Quinte. Despite the overgrowth and the rustic state of the farmhouse and barn, the farm’s history and charm captivated the family, and they set out with little more than a desire to preserve its legacy. Slowly, driven by Lucas’s mom’s vision and her brothers’ farming background, an agricultural restoration project took shape, transforming the farm back into productive land and feeding their family.

As their efforts progressed, the farm’s role expanded beyond sustaining the family to becoming a source of fresh, seasonal ingredients for the Royal Hotel in Picton, which the family was also restoring. This venture marked the beginning of Edwin County Farms’ commitment to farm-to-table dining and sharing the best of The County with guests and the wider community. Lucas takes pride in using organic methods and growing unique, flavorful varieties that thrive without synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, reflecting the spirit and flavor of Prince Edward County.

Lucas’s favorite way to showcase the farm’s produce is through simple dishes like Roasted Hakurei Turnips, a salad turnip with sweet, juicy qualities akin to an apple. Tossed with olive oil and salt, then roasted to perfection, they make a delicious side or hors d’oeuvre, especially for Thanksgiving.

Beyond the farm, one of Lucas’s most rewarding experiences has been helping to reestablish the Picton Town Hall Farmers Market. Seeing the community gather each Sunday from May to October, connecting over fresh, local food, reinforces the magic of Edwin County Farms and the vibrant community that makes The County so special.

Photo Credits: Edwin County Farms

The Elmbrook Farm

Originally from Wellington, Rob returned with Marie in 2019, motivated by the area’s growing wine industry and their interest in healthy, locally sourced food. At Elmbrook Farm, they faced the challenge of clay soil but committed to regenerative farming practices, enriching their 1/3-acre market garden with compost produced both on-site and from local sources. Their dedication to building organic content has allowed them to produce nutrient-dense vegetables that they proudly share with the community.

Their venture into microgreens began with just a few trays under a grow lamp, intended as a personal source of nutrient-rich greens year-round. After sharing their efforts on Instagram, they gained their first customer, who remains loyal to this day. This support from the community has been pivotal, allowing them to expand to around 15 varieties of microgreens, along with raw unfiltered honey, naturally grown organic vegetables, and a diverse range of sourdough products, including bread and bagels. What began with their first customer’s enthusiasm quickly grew, and they now supply over 30,000 bagels a year County-wide.

Rob and Marie’s commitment and hard work were vividly showcased during a severe snowstorm in January 2022, when they braved knee-deep snow to deliver fresh bread and microgreens to their customers, embodying their dedication to service. Additionally, their efforts gained wider recognition with a feature in the Toronto Star Life Section about their sourdough crusted butter tarts—a proud moment for the farm.

One of their favorite recipes is Pea Risotto, inspired by Gordon Ramsay, which highlights their pea microgreens. The dish incorporates a vibrant pea purée made from their microgreens into the risotto, adding a fresh and delicate flavor. Topped with additional microgreens, it beautifully represents Elmbrook Farm’s commitment to fresh, local, and delicious ingredients that reflect the unique spirit of Prince Edward County.

Photo Credits: Elmbrook Farms

Lighthall Vineyards

Lighthall Vineyards stands out in Prince Edward County as the only winery that also produces its own cheese, exclusively made from sheep’s milk. Founded by Glenn Symons in 2008, Lighthall embodies the passion and commitment that drew Glenn to PEC, making it the perfect place to start his venture. Today, the team includes winemaker Chris Thompson and cheesemaker Paul Battilana, who has been involved in wineries since 2000. Together, they ensure that every bottle of wine is crafted from grapes grown in their own vineyards, and every cheese reflects the unique terroir of the area.

The appeal of Prince Edward County goes beyond the vineyards for them—it’s about the people, the vibrant atmosphere, and the constant buzz of special events, restaurants, and fellow wineries that make the community thrive.

Lighthall’s cheese offerings pair beautifully with their wines, making a simple charcuterie board a go-to favorite. They also enjoy using their cheese for Raclette and Fondues, showcasing the versatility and quality of their products.

For the team at Lighthall, one of the most rewarding aspects is seeing familiar faces return and hearing positive feedback from customers who truly enjoy what they produce. These moments of connection and community are what make their work so fulfilling.

Photo Credit: Lighthall Vineyards

Paper Kite Farms

Judy and Hans traded their hectic Montreal hotel business for a quieter life at Paper Kite Farms in Prince Edward County, seeking more time with family and a deeper connection to nature. Embracing their Asian heritage, they grow vegetables from their parents’ homelands, creating a link to their roots and their elders. Sustainability is at the heart of Paper Kite Farms, where every crop nourishes and heals the land.

The welcoming community of PEC has been a highlight of their journey, with both new and long-time residents supporting their efforts. Starting on land with little topsoil, Judy and Hans spent three years rebuilding the soil into a thriving ecosystem, a testament to their commitment and resilience. For them, Paper Kite Farms is about community and nurturing the earth.

In their kitchen, Judy and Hans keep their cooking simple to let the vegetables speak for themselves. They often stir-fry fresh produce with just garlic and salt, or enjoy romano beans blistered in hot oil, finished with salt and lemon. One of their favorite dishes was when they added dehydrated puffball mushroom powder, which they foraged and preserved, adding a beautiful depth to their meal.

Photo Credits: Paper Kite Farms

Portico Gardens

Dave and Arlette turned their love for good food and active living into Portico Gardens in 2006, expanding from a small 300-square-foot plot to nearly two and a half acres of thriving organic gardens in Prince Edward County.

As one of the few certified organic farms in the county, they offer a unique range of produce, including heritage tomatoes like Matt’s Wild Cherries and Black Krim, a variety of peppers and squash, and even their signature Garlettes—roasted garlic cut flowers inspired by Arlette’s mother who encouraged her not to waste anything. They also produce specialty items like fermented black garlic and freeze-dried spices, adding distinctive flavors to their offerings.

The community in PEC has been a rewarding part of their journey, with supportive neighbors and customers who share their appreciation for local, fresh food. Starting with land that was less than ideal, Dave and Arlette have worked tirelessly to rebuild the soil and create a healthy, productive ecosystem that reflects their dedication and love for their crops. For them, Portico Gardens is about a way to carry on the legacy of PEC’s agricultural roots and contribute to the vibrant local food scene.

In their kitchen, Dave and Arlette keep things simple to let their fresh produce shine, often preparing vegetables with just salt, pepper, and butter. A favorite is their straightforward Thanksgiving feast, featuring a roast turkey surrounded by a variety of their garden vegetables, showcasing the pure flavors of their hard work and dedication.

Photo Credits: Portico Gardens

Vicki’s Veggies

Vicki grew up in Prince Edward County but moved away for university and to explore the world through work and travel. Despite her adventures abroad, her heart remained connected to PEC, where her family still lived. Wanting to be present in her newborn niece’s life, Vicki returned to PEC in 1999, starting Vicki’s Veggies with a simple garden that blossomed into the beloved farm it is today.

At Vicki’s Veggies, everything is grown with love and a deep respect for the land. Vicki’s commitment to organic farming ensures that her produce reflects the unique flavor of PEC’s soil, which, as she puts it, “can’t be washed off.”

Known for her heirloom tomatoes, Vicki’s collection began modestly in 2001 but has since grown to include over 300 varieties. One of her most memorable moments was the 2015 Heirloom Tomato Tasting, where she showcased 180 varieties, each with distinct flavors. The event perfectly captured Vicki’s passion for sharing the diverse and delicious bounty of her farm with others.

Vicki cherishes the strong family bonds that are a hallmark of her life in PEC. Every holiday, her extended family gathers for a big potluck Sunday dinner, with each member bringing their favorite dish. From her uncle’s turkey to her mom’s mashed potatoes, and her cousin Kathy’s special baked beans, the meals are a heartwarming tradition.

Vicki’s favorite recipe is a Soubise, a dish introduced to her by Jamie Kennedy with whom she worked on a commercial shoot for a Thermador induction stove. It features fresh arugula, onions, fall carrots, and Gialette beans that she brought back from Italy that year.

Photo Credits: Vicki’s Veggies

Create a PEC Harvest Celebration At Home

Talia and I have found so much to love in our regular visits to Prince Edward County. We hope you’ll take this opportunity to explore PEC’s vibrant culinary scene and bring its rich flavors into your own home.

From the artisanal cheeses and fresh produce to the friendly faces behind each family-run business, PEC offers a connection to the land and the people who make it all possible. Our guide of 20 curated destinations invites you to experience the quality, variety, and community that define Prince Edward County.

We encourage you to visit PEC before your Thanksgiving feast. Gather these exceptional ingredients and let the stories and flavors of the best food of Ontario inspire your own farm-to-table celebration.

But before you start this adventure, don’t forget to enter our giveaway for a chance to win incredible prizes. These experiences are designed to bring a piece of PEC into your own life.

So, explore these hidden gems. Bring a taste of Prince Edward County to your dining table this holiday season!