Niagara Falls likes to boast about its newly invigorated dining scene, but it's a challenge to find good food that doesn't cost a small fortune. One interesting option is the Pinnacle Restaurant, 6732 Fallsview Blvd. (tel. 905/356-1501), which offers a Continental menu and a remarkable view from the top of the Konica Minolta Tower. Carpaccio, 6840 Lundy's Lane (tel. 905/371-2063), is surrounded by fast-food outlets, but its fine Italian cooking makes it a gastronomic oasis. The Keg, 5950 Victoria Ave. (tel. 905/353-4022) is a reliable steakhouse chain. Over at Casino Niagara, Lucky's, 5705 Falls Ave. (tel. 888/946-3255), serves up hearty portions of prime rib as well as burgers and pizza. The Rainforest Café, 5875 Falls Ave. (tel. 905/374-2233), is a family favorite with its animatronic gorillas and serpents and its tried-and-true menu of pizzas, burgers, and sandwiches.
Niagara Parkway Commission Restaurants -- The Niagara Parkway Commission has commandeered the most spectacular scenic spots for its restaurants. These used to be reasonably priced places serving lunch and dinner, but recent renovations have focused on creating more upscale settings, with prices to match. Table Rock Centre, right across from the falls, has had a complete renovation, and its expensive new restaurant, Elements on the Falls (tel. 905/354-3631) opened in the summer of 2008. Also close to the falls is Edgewaters Tap & Grill (tel. 905/356-2217), a more casual restaurant that's appropriate for the whole family (there's a special menu for kids). Whirlpool Restaurant (tel. 905/356-7221), at the Whirlpool Golf Course near Queenston, is open to the public while the course is open (May to December). My favorite of the Niagara Parkway Commission's eateries is still the Queenston Heights Restaurant, 14184 Niagara Pkwy. (tel. 905/262-4274). Set in the park among firs, cypresses, silver birches, and maples, the restaurant affords a magnificent view of the lower Niagara River and the lush, abundant land through which it flows. The restaurant also serves up an excellent duck confit and boasts a great wine list.
