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, 6732 Oakes Dr. (tel. 905/356-1501), which offers a Continental menu and a remarkable view from the top of the 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, the Twenty-One Club, 5705 Falls Ave. (tel. 905/374-3598), is pricey but good. 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, where it operates reasonably priced dining outlets. They serve traditional, family-style food at lunch and dinner, and do not accept reservations. Table Rock Restaurant (tel. 905/354-3631) and Victoria Park Restaurant (tel. 905/356-2217), on the parkway right by the falls, are both pleasant, if crowded. Diner on the Green (tel. 905/356-7221) is also on the parkway, at the Whirlpool Golf Course near Queenston. It's very plain.
The star of the Niagara Parkway Commission's eateries is Queenston Heights, 14275 Niagara Pkwy. (tel. 905/262-4274). Set in the park among firs, cypresses, silver birches, and maples, the open-air balcony affords a magnificent view of the lower Niagara River and the rich fruit-growing land through which it flows. Or you can sit under the cathedral ceiling in a room where the flue of the stone fireplace reaches to the roof. Dinner options might include fillet of Atlantic salmon with Riesling-chive hollandaise, prime rib, or grilled pork with apples and cider-Dijon mustard sauce. Afternoon tea is served from 3 to 5pm in the summer. If nothing else, go for a drink on the deck and enjoy the terrific view.
