Food lovers, rejoice! Some of the best culinary experiences in the region can be found right here in Oakville and Burlington, and there’s no better time to explore them than during Taste of Oakville and Taste of Burlington. These two-week events invite diners to enjoy special prix-fixe menus crafted by talented local chefs. They are the perfect opportunity to discover new restaurants or revisit longtime favourites.

Taste events arrive at just the right time — mid-winter, when the blues can creep in and people look for reasons to get out of the house. They provide an opportunity to explore local flavours, catch up with friends and family, and break from routine. 

“Every year, we hear from residents who look forward to the event. Many use it as inspiration to try something new,” says Rebecca Edgar, Executive Director of Visit Oakville. 

Taste events help people appreciate the high-quality dining experiences available close to home. “You don’t have to go to Toronto to get these foodie culinary experiences,” says Claire Green, Director of Destination Development and Marketing at Burlington Economic Development and Tourism. “We have them right here.”

Celebrating neighbourhood gems

Taste events are a platform for local chefs to showcase their creativity. Each participating restaurant offers prix-fixe lunch and dinner menus, making it easy for diners to explore a range of cuisines and price points. 

Not just downtown hotspots are featured. Oakville diners can look forward to the return of beloved favourites to the lineup in 2026, including The King’s Arms, 7 Enoteca, Coriander Green, Buca Di Bacco, Puckz Pub, Sugar Suite, JAC’s Bistro, Stack BBQ Smokehouse, Paradiso, Sweet! Bakery, and Ritorno.

Green highlights restaurants throughout Burlington — from Loondocks at Appleby Line, to Pepe and Lela’s at Appleby and Upper Middle, to District in Aldershot — and encourages residents to explore restaurants in their neighbourhoods.  “We have an amazing assortment of chef driven restaurants, and it gives people the opportunity to explore these venues,” says Green.

This year, Taste of Burlington is adding a fun and interactive twist to the culinary adventure with a digital pass through Bandwango. Diners can check in at restaurants, earn points, and enter giveaways.

A boost for restaurateurs

Taste events play an important role in supporting the local culinary scene. Last year, Taste of Burlington refreshed its event marketing program by putting chefs front and centre. Local chefs appeared on CHCH Morning Live segments to share the stories behind their dishes. Green says this storytelling focus will continue in 2026, shining a light on the talent and passion that make the city’s food scene so special.

Green notes interest from restaurants has been stronger than ever, with 20 restaurants signing up for Taste of Burlington within the first 24 hours of applications opening. The event is on track to exceed the 30 participating restaurants in 2025. 

Oakville is seeing similar enthusiasm. According to Edgar, 84% of participating restaurants report increased business during Taste of Oakville, and 98% say the event brings in new customers. Even neighbouring businesses benefit. “With these additional diners comes increased foot traffic into our business areas, and heightened awareness of what Oakville has to offer during what is historically a slower time of year,” she says.

Ready to taste it all?

Both Taste of Oakville and Taste of Burlington run for two weeks, giving you plenty of time to visit one restaurant — or five. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or just someone who enjoys a great meal, these events offer an affordable, low-pressure way to try new flavours, support local businesses, and celebrate the culinary talent in your community.

So gather your friends, book a table, and let your taste buds lead the way. 

Taste of Burlington – January 26 – February 8, 2026

tasteofburlington.ca

Taste of Oakville – February 19 – March 15, 2026

tasteofoakville.ca

By Lisa Evans