New Website Champions Niagara Dining and Beverage Scene While Helping Visitors Experience the Region Like Locals

December 15, 2021

With time at a premium to check all the boxes on holiday gift lists, a new local website writing the story of Niagara’s food and drink scene offers a one-stop shopping solution.

When in Niagara is selling vouchers to 20 of the region’s landmark restaurants, wineries and experiences, making holiday shopping a cinch while supporting local businesses. Vouchers are sold in $50 and $100 denominations. Participating vendors include Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery, Sterling Inn & Spa, Zappi’s Pizza and Pasta, Karma Chameleon, and a growing list of exciting venues.

When in Niagara is a portal for all things food, drink, and tourism-related in in the region. It’s a culmination of the efforts of Marcel Morgenstern, owner/partner of Burnt Ship Bay, an estate winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake, to help local restaurants during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In March 2020, when the world shut down, Morgenstern started a Facebook page for restaurateurs to share takeout menus and local diners to seek out and suggest their favourite places to eat. Since then, the Restaurants of Niagara page has grown organically to more than 54,000 members sharing positive dining experiences and and giving a boost to their favourite eateries thanks to nearly 1.8 million bimonthly views.

When in Niagara carries on this helpful legacy by telling the stories of local chefs, vintners, and others in the region’s food and drink scenes to encourage tourists and locals alike to discover the area’s true gems. Since launching in the September 2021, When in Niagara has become the go-to site for visitors to plan a truly authentic Niagara experience. The website provides access to directories of local hot spots, and has capabilities to build custom itineraries and purchase vouchers for use during their visits.

“When the pandemic hit, I felt compelled to help an industry that has always supported me through my career,” Morgenstern said. “It was wonderful to see how restaurants and then diners stepped up and championed their favourite places to eat, and seeing the snowball effect of that. I’ve heard numerous stories of businesses being saved, started or growing because of this group and my hope is to continue that with wheninniagara.com.”

Vouchers purchased on When in Niagara can be printed or given electronically, and include an option for personalized messages to make the holidays brighter. Got a suggestion for a business that should be on the list? Connect with When in Niagara directly via the website or on Facebook.

Visit wheninniagara.com for more information.