A dramatic revitalization of century-old limestone buildings into exceptional restaurants, art installations, and more
The Gaslight District, in Cambridge, Ontario, a vast public square surrounded by gorgeous, century-old limestone buildings, has seen a dramatic transformation. In the 1800s, the town was a manufacturing site of engines, boilers, water wheels and mill equipment, and is believed to be the last remaining intact complex of heritage industrial buildings and courtyards of this magnitude in Ontario.
Now a bustling community and entertainment hub, the Gaslight District has perfectly blended the beauty of its historical buildings with fabulous restaurants like the Foundry Tavern, The Underwing, The French and more, as well as art installations, shops, Tapestry Hall (an event space) and a craft brewery, among other things.
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The Gaslight District’s name pays homage to the gas lamps by the former Galt Gas Light Company that used to light the streets in the 1800s. Today, the area is a destination perfect for an evening of culture, community, entertainment and beautiful dining. It’s also becoming one of Cambridge’s hottest gems, attracting visitors from across the country who want to see the dramatic revitalization of the historic site as it grows and transforms the town’s unique historical streetscapes.
The Underwing is a must-stop when visiting the Gaslight District in Cambridge, Ontario.
I recently spent an evening in the District to experience the buzz around the restaurants, the entertainment, the cocktails and, of course, the vibe. First stop, The Underwing – an elegant restaurant that offers live music and unique elixirs in a moody lounge atmosphere. It’s a captivating hideaway with a creatively designed menu and an innovative selection of cocktails.
The food here is as delicious as it is beautiful. Try the spicy tuna tartare, East Coast oysters or duck prosciutto flatbread, mussels, rabbit or pistachio terrine to start. For mains the hay-smoked duck breast, wild mushroom gnocchi and pan-seared arctic char stood out among several other tasty looking dishes.
The cocktails alone are worth a visit as The Underwing is known for their impressive cocktail creations. Recommended are the Fireside Margarita, a delicious take on a spicy Marg; the Espresso Old Fashioned,, or the Gaslighter – a gin and cherry cocktail. The robust wine list includes favourites from around the world, including Ontario.
The band playing during my visit was a fabulous trio – a mix of funk and jazz – and it only added to the alluring atmosphere of velvet lounge seating, candlelit tables, and opulent décor combined with the original character and architecture found in all the Gaslight buildings.
Event hub
Joey Niceforo (left) performs at Tapestry Hall.
The Gaslight District has multiple events planned throughout the year, including exceptional performances by the Cambridge Symphony Orchestra at Tapestry Hall. During my visit, I happened to catch one with special guests Joey Niceforo and Sara Papin. The concert was breathtaking in the stunning Tapestry Hall that offers live music and plays host to weddings and corporate events. There’s also an extraordinary ‘living sculpture’ named Meander by Philip Beesley, a world-renowned artist. The sculpture mimics the meandering of the Grand River, shifting through a series of sensors that sense the presence of people in the room.
The Cambridge Symphony Orchestra, led by maestro, Sabatino Vacca, offers concerts at Tapestry Hall a few times a year, and the blend of the orchestra with the artistic surroundings is a true treat.
Music, art, culture, shops, heritage – all are seamlessly woven with exceptional food and drink experiences that creates a dynamic space already loved by so many. You’ll find sports games being broadcasted on the jumbo television in the square, free outdoor movie nights, exotic car shows, fantastic concerts all year long, markets, as well as new restaurants and shops popping up all the time – all created to bring the community together.
But the heart of the Gaslight District is its heritage, the cobblestone streets and the vast limestone buildings, dressed in twinkling lights. If you peek through the windows you’ll see friends enjoying elegant dinners in the candlelight or dancing to live music. It’s the ambiance that creates a truly magical feeling.
– Shannon Mastaler is a co-founder and lifestyle editor with VineRoutes
