W ith fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and a growing selection of Island-made beverages, PEI offers a unique blend of traditional flavours and creative pairings that delight food lovers from around the world. Whether you’re planning a picnic or dining seaside, here are some must-try PEI food and drink pairings that bring out the best of the Island. LOBSTER - A PEI Staple When it comes to iconic Island eats, PEI lobster is a top pick! The classic steamed lobster is a must-try, but PEI chefs are also pushing culinary boundaries with decadent dishes like lobster mac and cheese or the indulgent lobster poutine, where succulent meat is layered over crispy fries, cheese curds, and rich gravy. To elevate the experience, try pairing your lobster dish with Copper Bottom Flora Pilsner (81787X). This crisp, refreshing beer complements the buttery richness of lobster without overpowering its delicate flavour. Prefer wine? Matos Chardonnay (09021Z) makes a fantastic pairing as well, offering a clean, vibrant profile that highlights the sweet, briny notes of the lobster.
PEI POTATO SALAD – With a Twist
with a sip of Nectar Sweet Mead from Island Honey Wine Co. (15758A)—a floral, honey-kissed drink that’s both nostalgic and novel. Looking for something on the lighter side? Pack a spinach salad topped with fresh berries, goat cheese, and toasted nuts, and pair it with a glass of Matos Strawberry Chardonnay (15752Z). This fruit-forward
Want something different? Mix up a Caesar cocktail using Deep Roots Distillery Ocean Pearl Vodka —a PEI-crafted spirit that adds a local twist to Canada’s classic savoury drink.
Potatoes are deeply rooted in PEI’s agricultural heritage, and no summer gathering is complete without a bowl of PEI potato salad. To put a fresh spin on this classic, try adding diced apple to the mix—offering a sweet crunch that balances the creaminess beautifully. This sweet-savoury combination pairs wonderfully with Red Island
BURGERS & BACKYARD FEASTS
Planning a barbecue? Elevate your burger game with cremini mushrooms and blue cheese, creating a bold and earthy flavour profile. To complement this rich dish, crack open a Gahan Blueberry Ale (81713X)—its hint of berry offers a refreshing contrast to the burger’s umami goodness. Prefer wine with your grill? A glass of Rossignol Isle Saint Jean Red (07101Z) offers depth and a touch of Island elegance. SWEET TREATS For a beach picnic or leisurely lunch in one of PEI’s picturesque parks, add gourmet touches that showcase the Island’s charm. Treat yourself to chocolate truffles from the Anne of Green Gables Store—a decadent nod to a literary classic. Pair them & FRESH GREENS
wine adds a splash of sunshine to every bite. SAVOUR THE ISLAND
Cider’s Father Walker (19597X), whose crisp,
apple-forward profile echoes the salad’s fruity notes and cuts through the richness. Looking for a lighter sip? Try a chilled Snap Apple Vodka Soda (18006X)— clean, fizzy, and refreshingly simple. PEI MUSSELS & OYSTERS PEI is equally famous for its oysters and mussels, harvested fresh from the pristine waters surrounding the Island. The briny freshness of PEI shellfish calls for a drink that can match its complexity without overshadowing it. Try pairing Island oysters and mussels with Rossignol’s L’Acadie Blanc (09121Z), a light and aromatic white wine that enhances their natural salinity.
PEI’s culinary scene is a beautiful blend of tradition, innovation, and local pride. From sea to soil, the Island’s bounty offers something for every palate. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply exploring local flavours, these PEI food and drink pairings promise to leave a lasting impression. So dig in, raise a glass, and enjoy the delicious harmony that only Prince Edward Island can offer.
NOTABLES BY PEI LIQUOR Located inside Founders' Food Hall & Market 6 Prince Street, Charlottetown lccnotables@liquorpei.com www.liquorpei.com
Cheryl MacDonald is the Specialty Product Advisor at Notables by PEI Liquor in the Founders’ Food Hall & Market. (Photo: Bobby-Jo Goudreau)
WWW.PEI-LIVING.CA / 19 / SUMMER 2025
Made with FlippingBook Digital Proposal Creator