Living and working in the downtown core of Niagara Falls for about a decade, I've been able to try most of the food options available close to Niagara Escapement - and enough times that I can speak for their consistency and value.
There are plenty of food options on Victoria avenue that can cater to what you're looking for.
I'd like to touch on the more locally run ones, cause really - you can get subway just about anywhere.
Niko's place If you're looking for the best poutine and fried foods in Niagara - they're right up the street from us in a little shack between the subway and laundromat on Victoria avenue, seriously.
This locally owned and operated fry truck has an amazing selection of made to order food including burgers, mozza sticks (some of my favourite) and their locally famous poutine.
You'll see this place suggested by everyone when someone asks where to go for poutine in our local guide pages, and there's a good reason why.
Niko's has a few picnic tables outside for you to eat at once you've got your food.
Country Fresh Donuts Fresh donuts & the best won ton soup you've ever had. Yeah, you read that right.
The best won-ton soup, probably in the world and 100% in the Niagara region.
A couple of years ago Country Fresh had a car crash through it's front windows and there were news articles written about how sad the residents here were. When they re-opened, there was a line up around the building for literal days. Serving fresh donuts that you can smell from down the street, sandwiches and soup options including wonton and bok choy or rice noodle, this family run shop is absolutely adorable and a must visit when you're in Niagara Falls.
Country Fresh does have tables inside for you to enjoy your soup or coffee and donuts.
If you're looking for a local dine-in experience close to Victoria avenue, Tap's is located just around the corner on Queen Street. Featuring a huge dine in area and patio, we've frequented Taps weekly for years and years, and will continue to do so. Everything from the atmosphere, food and service is on point in this modern Gastro-pub. Their menu boasts vegetarian options, party options, small portions. You want it? They've got it. Beer brewed on site, fresh food prepared in an open concept kitchen and a stage inside as well as outside for live events, it's no wonder this place is always busy and hopping.
Treat yourself to something sweet at this adorable and fantastically run gelato shop!
The staff here are always so welcoming and friendly, they're ready to give you recommendations and guide you through the entire process of ordering your sweet treat.
I cannot express enough how much I love everything I have gotten from "italian ice cream" from the feeling inside of the store, to the patio. The fruity flavours and dessert flavours are all amazing, and the coffee & baked goods are to die for.
Italian ice cream is currently only serving guests outside.
The newest place to grab fresh food in the area, Big Moe's is a locally owned and run shawarma shop with delicious beef donair as well.
You can order your shawarma, donair or falafel on a wrap OR fries (my preference) and be treated like a long time friend from the moment you walk in.
There is no eating area in Big Moe's, so you'll want to have somewhere to chow down once you've got your food.