Waffle cones and ice cream are the representative summer treat, especially when accompanied by the sticky scent of sugariness and a waterfront walk.
Father's Day was quite the low-key celebration this year - no Diana's, no buffet brunch, but oysters present nonetheless.
Upon waking, climate conditions were observed to have deviated from the predicted periodic showers to generally grey skies and a light drizzle here and there. As such, we set out for the west just after lunchtime. The ultimate destination was COWS, though a few detours were also made.
Father's Day was quite the low-key celebration this year - no Diana's, no buffet brunch, but oysters present nonetheless.
Upon waking, climate conditions were observed to have deviated from the predicted periodic showers to generally grey skies and a light drizzle here and there. As such, we set out for the west just after lunchtime. The ultimate destination was COWS, though a few detours were also made.
Navigation tools had guided me along Niagara Stone Road, a section of the region known as the "Winery Route". Perched at each and every corner was a different name - all wineries of varying magnitudes. With arguably the grandest presentation in sight, the Wayne Gretzky Estates Winery & Distillery drew us in for our first detour.
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The spot was an unsurprising tourist spot for both locals and vacationers alike. Guided tours, wine and whiskey tastings, and private gatherings were not uncommon at this irrefutably Canadian establishment.
Beyond the vineyard and all-too-frequent "99" inserts were several patio and lounge areas, a gift shop retailing monogrammed household items, and a separate gift shop specializing in beer and consumer-level brewing equipment. Even the father of Wayne Gretzky himself had appeared on the property, gladly posing for photos with those that took advantage of the opportunity.
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We paused for a moment to roam, then resumed the drive without further interruption.
Despite the drizzle, Niagara's Historic District was positively bustling, specifically at our ice cream parlour of choice. The sole Ontario outpost of the PEI native housed a winding lineup that was visible even from the opposite intersection. Spirits undampened, we pulled into the parking lot without a shred of hesitation.
The wait time averaged about ten to fifteen minutes, which wasn't particularly lengthy at all (given my experiences downtown). Patrons had assimilated in single file around the store's signature cow mascot. Four to five staff members scrambled behind the counter attending to customer orders.
To my surprise, samples were not denied in the midst of hustle. The young lady serving us was more than willing to fetch small spoonfuls of Nanaimoo Bar and Moo Henry; another staff member approached us shortly, earnestly inquiring whether or not we had been helped already.
To my surprise, samples were not denied in the midst of hustle. The young lady serving us was more than willing to fetch small spoonfuls of Nanaimoo Bar and Moo Henry; another staff member approached us shortly, earnestly inquiring whether or not we had been helped already.
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Moo Henry and Chunky Chocolate Mint made the final lineup in a Waffle Cone. I also took advantage of the chance to acquire new cattle-themed pajama pants, a location-exclusive notepad, and a plush, terry beach towel (purple and ice cream-themed!).
Port Dalhousie in St. Catharines and Charles Daley Park in Lincoln were hit on the way back. By this point, general humidity had been replaced with grave gusts and tumbling temperatures.
Foodora was down, sadly. Dinner comprised of leftovers from my last cooking session and a two Glacier Bay oysters per person. (Might I add that my shell-prying skills have advanced.)
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