New 2-storey upscale waterfront restaurant opens in Pickering

A new waterfront dining destination inspired by coastal tavernas and lakefront living has officially opened in Pickering, bringing Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and panoramic bay views to the city.

Watr Taverna & Ristorante, located at 590 Liverpool Rd., officially opened Jan. 14, welcoming guests into its lakehouse-style dining space overlooking the water.

According to the restaurant’s website, the concept centres on gathering by the bay, blending relaxed coastal luxury with the vibrant energy. The space features sunlit interiors, nautical-inspired design, an upstairs level for events and stunning views.

The menu spans brunch, small plates, seafood, pasta, mains and desserts, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Weekend brunch highlights include lemon ricotta pancakes, Belgian waffles, banana-bread French toast, shakshuka, avocado toast, smoked salmon Benedict, steak and eggs, and chicken and waffles.

Appetizers and shareables feature truffle fries, buffalo cauliflower bites, grilled garlic shrimp, charcuterie boards, mac and cheese, mussels, crab dip, pork belly tacos and a variety of wings, alongside sushi offerings such as spicy tuna rolls, salmon carpaccio and East Coast oysters.

Salads range from Caesar and mixed greens to burrata, cranberry spinach, and marinated seafood, while pizzas include margherita, truffle mushroom, pistachio-pesto chicken, and grilled seafood.

Pasta and rice dishes include squid-ink seafood risotto, linguine ai frutti di mare, gnocchi al granchio, and truffle-fungi pappardelle.

Main courses highlight seafood and premium proteins, including miso black cod, seared halibut, teriyaki salmon, lobster mac and cheese, veal parmesan, prime ribeye, New York striploin and whole lobster tail, alongside chicken and vegetarian options.

The drink menu includes fresh juices, specialty coffee, tea and non-alcoholic options such as Perrier, mango and pineapple juice, Heineken 0.0 and Corona Cero. There are also wines, beers, classic cocktails and signature creations, including margarita flights, espresso martinis, mojitos and more!

Desserts include molten chocolate cake, tiramisu, lavender crème brûlée, and pistachio-burnt Basque cheesecake.

Watr Taverna & Ristorante operates Monday to Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 a.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.

—Photos via watrrestaurants.com