9 Year-Round Spots to Visit on PEI, Canada’s Food Island

Some folks may tell you that the only time to visit PEI, Canada’s Food Island, is in the summer. Quite frankly, they are wrong.

There’s no denying the magic of an Island summer filled with beach bumming, patio drinking, and ice cream indulging. But Prince Edward Island is more than a one-season destination. The crisp, fiery days of autumn, white wonderlands of winter and bright promises of a warm spring day beckon with endless possibilities for adventure and respite.

Those that heed the call of PEI’s ‘off-seasons’ will be amply rewarded. Countless gems await in our cities, villages, and countryside – ready for you to discover at an unhurried pace.  

And if you’re in search of a culinary getaway, we promise Canada’s Food Island will woo you no matter what time of year you visit. To help you start your trip planning, here are 9 must-visit food and drink spots across PEI open year-round.

1. Island Hill Farm

Goats, llamas, a donkey named Gavin, and all sorts of other furry animals compete for your attention at ‘The Cutest Place on Earth’, Island Hill Farm. This working farm will win over the hearts of young and old alike. Did we mention there’s also a cafe on site that serves up delectable treats, lunches, hot drinks, and ice cream? Make sure you visit the shop and stock up on goat’s milk soap and other treasures too! Located in the Central Coastal Tourism region of PEI, Island Hill Farm is an easy 15-minute drive west of Charlottetown!

2. Charlottetown Farmers’ Market and Summerside Farmers’ Market

The Saturday morning market visit is a treasured ritual for many Islanders and a not-to-be-missed experience for visitors. The Island’s two cities – Charlottetown and Summerside – boast incredible farmers’ markets where local food producers, craft beverage makers, artisans, and hot food vendors proffer their delectable and delightful goods. The vibes are always warm, the coffee is always hot, and the products are always local! Visit the Charlottetown Farmers Market on Saturdays from 9 to 2, and the Summerside Farmers’ Market on Saturdays from 9 -1.

3. Bogside Brewing

Head east to the beautiful town of Montague for craft beers, BBQ eats, and good times at Bogside Brewing. This casual craft brewery and taproom hosts events year-round and features a family-friendly atmosphere during the daytime. Sample from their wide range of brews and ciders, and fill up on comfort food courtesy of Crafters BBQ and Famous Peppers Pizza!

4. The Handpie Co.

With world headquarters in Albany, the Handpie Co. is ‘handily’ located near the Confederation Bridge in Central PEI. Their portable pies made with local ingredients deliver flaky goodness and are packed full of flavours for every palate. Choose from over 15 savoury pies, including Bacon Cheeseburger, Beet & Goat’s Cheese and PEI Pasty, or satisfy your sweet tooth with a decadent dessert handpie. With hot, ready-to-eat pies and frozen take-home pies on offer, you can eat one on the road and enjoy the rest at your PEI cottage or when you get home.

5. Backwoods Burger

Go Up West and make your way to tiny Tyne Valley for a burger that’ll knock your socks off. Backwoods Burger is a funky and friendly restaurant located in the heart of a village famed for its oysters and friendly people. The menu offers something for everyone in the family, including vegetarian options and a funny kids’ menu.

6. Jane & Sue Chocolate

Sublime in both appearance and flavour, Jane & Sue Chocolates are the perfect accompaniment to your road trip along PEI’s North Shore. Located just west of Cavendish, in Stanley Bridge, this sweet chocolate shop and studio is a must for chocolate lovers that have a discerning palate. On the other hand, it’ll also be a hit with the kids, we promise. Come prepared to swoon.

7. Evermoore Brewing Co.

There’s plenty to explore in Summerside, PEI’s “City by the Sea”, all year round, but a ‘must’ in our books is Evermoore Brewing Co.  Located in the city’s old train station, Evermoore is that quirky, cozy, charming spot you land at for lunch or dinner and never want to leave. It just feels like home right away in all the right ways. Oh, and their food and drinks are scrumptious too.

8. Founders’ Food Hall & Market

Charlottetown’s waterfront has plenty by way of tempting food and drink options along the boardwalk, but a visit to Founders’ Food Hall & Market is a must. Here you’ll find several options all in one beautifully restored building replete with brick walls and natural light. There’s something for everyone – from vegan comfort food to stuffed baked potatoes, authentic Mexican cuisine, big burgers, sushi burritos, and French Caribbean cuisine.

After you’ve filled up on lunch, make sure you visit Maritime Madness to sample their extensive line of PEI-made hot sauces. Finish with something sweet and uniquely PEI at Oh Fudge!, where you’ll swoon at the delicious fudge treats made with PEI potatoes! Yes, that’s right, potatoes… and no added sugar!!!! And you won’t even be able to tell the difference from regular fudge, we swear.

9. Riverdale Orchard & Cidery

Welcome to the Highlands of the Island, where Scottish couple Anne and Alex have set out on a mission to introduce Canadians to premium natural ciders crafted in the traditional UK-style.  Located in the hills of Central PEI, a short 20-minute drive from Charlottetown, Riverdale Orchard and Cidery is a destination unto itself for cyclists (it’s located near the Confederation Trail), road trippers, locals, and visitors. 

 In addition to their on-tap ciders, you can also enjoy baked goods and, depending on the season, a full menu of savoury and sweet meals. Throughout the year, Riverdale also hosts a variety of events from nights to snowshoeing adventures, bonfires, live music, kite-flying and more. A couple of their most beloved holiday events include Christmas in Riverdale and Guy Fawkes Bonfire Night (early November).

Riverdale Orchard & Cidery is part of the 5/15 Fermentation Trail, which is a self-guided tour of five craft beverage spots in Central PEI that are 15 minutes or less by car from each other! Check out this video for more about the 5/15 Fermentation Trail!

There you have it, a boatload of PEI food and drink experiences to add to your vacation itinerary no matter what time of year you’re visiting. For even more culinary inspo, check out our Food & Drink Guide!