Stratford on a plate. Photo: M. Jobin.

Only an hour away from Toronto, Stratford, Ontario is well known as a hotbed for theatre and the arts thanks to the draw of the annual Shakespear Festival. But for those that may be unfamiliar with the culinary legacy of this area, know that it’s become it’s own little foodie Mecca. From great restaurants for the festival crowd and locals alike, to the Stratford Chefs School, to the incredible agricultural riches of the surrounding Perth County farmlands, Stratford has plenty to offer those that are serious about good food. And there is no better time than the harvest to get acquainted with what the region has got going on, and that means heading to the Savour Stratford Perth County Culinary Festival on September 26th and 27th. A few lucky Toronto-types such as myself recently got a great sneak peak at what we can look forward to that weekend – and believe me, there is plenty to look forward to.

Hosted at Balzac’s in Liberty Village, we were treated to a great range of taste-teasers by Chef Aaron Linley of Bijou restaurant in Stratford – including great local prosciutto and Ruth Klahsen's Monteforte Dairy cheese, partnered with craft beer from the Stratford Brewing Company and Chateau des Charmes wines. Tea Sommelier Karen Hartwick of Tea Leaves was also on hand to tempt us with beautiful earthy Pu Erh tea and local herbal blends.

The Savour Stratford weekend itself is shaping up to be even more tempting. Both days will be packed with foodie fun, including a "Flavours of Perth" pork roast, The Stratford Chefs School Learning Centre where chefs, authors and industry experts will present a wealth of taste experiences, and of course, incredible farmers and artisans markets showing off the riches of the region. The absolute highlight will happen on Sunday the 27th at the Savour Stratford Tasting. Thirty “culinary duos” including Jamie Kennedy, Jonathan Gushue, and a host of local producers will offer up delicious samples paired with local craft beers and Ontario VQA wines.

Hungry yet? Well, you barely have to wait a week. For more information on the Savour Stratford Perth County Culinary Festival, a complete schedule of events, and to purchase special event tickets, visit www.savourstratford.com.

Michelle Jobin is the host and producer of Toronto Dining and a Weather Specialist for Global News. She is especially fond of duck confit, dark chocolate ganache, and thunderstorms.