Texas-Cookin.com: Memorable Dining Experiences

Dinner at the Oban Inn
Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario

I have always loved going to Niagara on the Lake, located on the Niagara Peninsula along Lake Ontario. With the glorious scenery, the abundance of wineries and the spectacular restaurants I can’t help but smile every time I think about it.

Upon my first visit to the Oban Inn, I learned that the Inn had been destroyed by fire in 1992 and was rebuilt in 1993. My first impression was “confusion” as we were forced to walk through a lounge to the adjoining hall and dining room. The dining room is definitely elegant and sophisticated but the charming service, large floral bouquets and soft jazz make it very comfortable. I felt instantaneous affection to the Oban with its large bright windows and white linens. With another dining room attached which appeared a little darker and more Victorian in style.

Our host seated us near a window and a server promptly attended our table to take our drink order. I chose the Chateau de Charmes’ Aligote. The menu was very pleasing and assorted.

My wife and I shared a large round of rich Camembert cheese baked with a crust of pistachio nuts served with toast points and red pepper jelly. My description to friends was “the combination is like angels weeping on your tongue”. All I can say is that I loved it. Next I had an amazing Caesar Salad with homemade croutons and large pieces of bacon…delicious.

My entrée was a chicken breast stuffed with sausage stuffing with a chutney sauce of sour cherries with mash potatoes. This was another brilliant dish.

We shared a piece of “chocolate decadence”, a combination of cheesecake, mousse, and cocoa gnash. The coffee and chocolate left me, for once, speechless.

The service was attentive, the staff knowledgeable and the food stunning. The entire ambiance of that evening was enchanting and gloriously romantic.

James A. Baker