Heavenly Café’s Heavenly Treats

Collingwood’s Heavenly Cafe has something for every sweet tooth … including quite possibly the planet’s most delicious Cinnamon Roll. Kim Kerr pops in for a chat and a bite…

 

The name, plastered in large fancy type on a sign hanging on the wall behind its serving counter, pretty much says it all: Heavenly Cafe.

A long-time favourite of seasonal visitors and locals alike, the home of Collingwood’s most “decadent desserts” is a must-visit for anyone new to the area, too. Sure, you’ll likely depart a few pounds heavier, but you won’t regret it.

Designed with a distinct Parisian flare – owner Heli Vogrin says her café’s ‘a touch of Paris in Collingwood’ – the décor is undeniably cozy and inviting, its soft, welcoming tones enticing you to slink onto one of the comfy chairs and never leave.

 

 

Located on Keith Ave on the outskirts of town and just minutes away Cranberry Resort, this popular bistro café is the kind of place you’ll want to linger and look awhile before ordering.

A good way to start is by taking a peek into the always impressively stocked pastry counter, chock-full of the most delightfully decorated cakes, including the decadent ‘death by chocolate and carrot cake (gluten free options are also available).

Also delightful are her mouth-watering selection of fancy pastry treats, tarts, cookies, pies and handmade truffles.

 

Heavenly Cafe’s European-inspired Menu

 

A long-time area cottager, Vogrin has also gained a well-deserved reputation for having created the most decadent cinnamon roll to be had anywhere. The size of a dinner plate (so don’t be shy to share), this sticky treat has become the cafés signature treat. What sets it apart – aside from its size – is the absence of traditional raisin fillers.

Instead, in its place is a warm caramelized topping made from brown sugar, butter, pecans and copious cranberries that’s poured liberally over the bun and so tasty you’ll be hard pressed to resist the urge to mop up every last drop of that sugary frosting.

So popular has the treat become that cottagers and residents alike will phone ahead to order complete trays of cinnamon buns, along with other homemade offerings including fresh croissants and danishes.

Along with her mouthwatering desserts, Vogrin has also earned a reputation for her breakfasts, including such delights as grilled egg wraps, crepes, French toast, frittatas, smoked salmon, bircher muesli, as well as a superb European brunch platter that includes a selection of prosciutto, salami, cheeses and breads.

 

Delicious Lunch Menu

 

She’s also pulled together an excellent lunchtime menu, too, cementing her spot as one of the best Collingwood restaurants for lunch. The most popular of her lunches include delicious homemade soups (if it’s available, be sure to try the ‘Croque Monsieur’ Rene’s French onion soup), open-faced egg salad sandwiches with cucumber and dill, tuna (with cranberry) or chicken pesto wraps and salads.

And if after all that you’ve any room left, try a treat or a fine espresso-based coffee. Better still, add a shot of thick, rich Italian chocolate to your beverage for a truly indulgent experience (and yes, it too is decadent!).

Heavenly Café also hosts regular fun events, too, including its girl’s night out; chocolate, wine and cheese pairings; chocolate making demonstrations; book readings; and gourmet tastings.

For further details, visit www.heavenlycafe.ca.

 

______________________

 

Contributor Kim Kerr is a frequent visitor to Collingwood and The Blue Mountains.