The Purple House Cafe

If you are looking for the most unusual spot in Gananoque, then you definitely need to stop by The Purple House Cafe. This charming restaurant, located in Canada, resembles a cozy forest cottage from a fairy tale, painted in a bright purple color. The establishment is deservedly considered one of the best in the region thanks to its unique aesthetic and high-quality cuisine.

The main feature of the cafe is the wood-fired oven, where flavorful pizza is prepared right in front of visitors. The interior and atmosphere are infused with homey warmth and a touch of eccentricity: the greenery-surrounded terrace features massive picnic tables, creating the perfect setting for a relaxed break.

The menu offers a wide range of Canadian dishes with an emphasis on fresh local ingredients. This place is incredibly popular with both locals and tourists, holding the first place among the city's restaurants according to popular travel portals.

For your convenience, we have gathered the current contact details for The Purple House Cafe. You can always find the establishment on the map or contact the staff by phone to check menu details.

The first thing to do at The Purple House is to enjoy a true wood-fired pizza tasting. You can choose from classic options or signature specials, such as pizza with bacon, strawberries, and an original dressing. Be sure to complement your meal with the signature Purple House Salad, famous for its freshness and unique combination of ingredients.

While your order is being prepared, you can watch the magic of the open flame in the oven or enjoy drinks on the cozy terrace. The atmosphere encourages heartfelt conversation: you'll often meet the friendly owner, who personally looks after every guest's comfort. It's the perfect spot for a casual dinner after a long walk or a ferry tour.

Don't forget to save room for dessert, like the apple cheesecake with caramel. In the evening, the cafe takes on a special charm thanks to soft lighting and the sounds of nature, making it a great choice for a romantic evening or a quiet family outing. Excellent options for vegetarians and vegans are also provided, so everyone will find a dish to their taste.

The cafe is located at 165 Main St, making it easily accessible for most tourists. It is situated in the very heart of the city, just a few minutes' walk from the ferry terminal, where the famous 1000 Islands cruises depart. If you are already walking along the main streets, you definitely won't miss the house's bright purple facade.

For those traveling by car from Kingston or Ottawa, it is most convenient to take Highway 401 and then exit onto Main Street. Street parking is available nearby. The city is also accessible by intercity buses; the walk from the nearest stop to the cafe's doors takes no more than 5–10 minutes.

The establishment is fully wheelchair accessible. If you are staying at one of the downtown hotels, a taxi to the cafe will cost a minimal amount, although a pleasant walk through the historic quarters is equally enjoyable.

While the official records of the establishment don't overflow with archival dates, its history is inextricably linked to the concept of a "fairy-tale house." The cafe building itself has become an unofficial city landmark thanks to its bold visual design and rich purple color, which makes it stand out against the classical architecture.

The tradition of preparing food in a stone wood-fired oven harks back to ancient culinary methods, which are carefully preserved and popularized here. Using an open fire allows for that authentic taste and crispy crust that have become the hallmark of The Purple House's kitchen.

Over the years, this place has evolved from a local eatery into a cult spot on the traveler's map. It serves as a living example of how attention to detail and a cozy, almost homey atmosphere can turn a simple cafe into a must-visit destination for every tourist in the region.

A visit to The Purple House Cafe usually takes 1 to 2 hours. This is enough time to enjoy the main dishes, try the signature dessert, and feel the slow pace of life in this magical place.

Since the establishment does not take reservations, additional wait time for a free table may be required during peak hours or on weekends. If you plan to visit on a Saturday or Sunday, try to arrive a bit early to snag a cozy table on the outdoor terrace without a long wait.

The cafe's schedule allows you to plan both a cozy weekend brunch and a pleasant weekday dinner. From Monday to Thursday, the doors are open from 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM. On Friday, service is extended by half an hour until 9:00 PM, which is perfect for starting the weekend.

On Saturday and Sunday, The Purple House operates on an extended schedule: Saturday from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 8:30 PM. This schedule provides the opportunity to enjoy their famous pizza during daylight hours on the outdoor terrace.

Exploring the surroundings of The Purple House will allow you to better feel the region's atmosphere and enrich your travel experience. Very close to the cafe are historical monuments and interesting sites that tell stories of the area's past and present.

After a delicious meal, it will be pleasant to stroll to the local lighthouse or inspect the vintage locomotive. All these attractions are within walking distance, allowing you to create a fulfilling walking route without leaving the city center.