Downtown Stratford is raising a glass to an exciting new addition this spring with the arrival of Betty’s Wine Bar, opening its doors on May 15th!
Owned by Jennifer Birmingham – also the owner of The Bruce and Treasurer on the BIA Board of Directors – Betty’s is more than just a wine bar. It’s a deeply personal tribute, named in honour of Jennifer’s late mother, Betty Birmingham.
Betty was known for her whimsical and mischievous spirit, as well as her unwavering dedication to the Canadian wheelchair tennis community. Alongside her husband Bruce, she was a beloved and active supporter – bringing passion, generosity, and joy to every event she touched. That legacy lives on in the spirit of Betty’s Wine Bar, where a playful retro tennis theme sets the tone. Staff have leaned into the concept and have opted to wear white polos and tennis skirts!
Betty’s is being managed by Michelle Baril who has worked for almost two years in catering and events at The Bruce. She brings with her years of experience in the pub and restaurant business and is beyond excited about the launch of Betty’s!
At its core, Betty’s is a wine lover’s destination. The carefully curated wine list features bottles not available at the LCBO, each hand-selected by Michelle herself. Guests can explore an international selection, including French and Italian classics, alongside Spanish, Austrian, Croatian, and Chilean offerings. A classic French rosé is sure to be a staple for warm-weather sipping.
Beyond wine, the bar offers a thoughtful range of beverages. Local flavour shines through with a golden ale from Black Swan Brewing Co., while selections from Collective Arts include craft beer, ready-to-drink spritzes, and cider. Non-alcoholic options are equally considered, with offerings like a hazy pale ale and Barbet sparkling water in a variety of unique flavours – perfect for curious tastebuds.
The food – made at The Bruce and prepared on site, is designed for sharing and savouring. Guests can enjoy elevated small plates such as smoked trout pâté, pork rillettes, and celeriac & aged gouda remoulade. Comforting features like baked brie with apple-walnut compote and pull-apart bread are sure to please, alongside warm marinated olives, kettle chips from Ray Woodey’s Craft Chippery, and beautifully curated cheese and deli plates.
For those ending the evening on a sweet note, Betty’s offers decadent desserts like maple sugar bar and butterscotch pudding with shortbread cookies – perfect companions to an after-dinner drink.
Adding to its charm, Betty’s boasts a lovely backyard patio, with seating for up to 16 guests on the deck and plans for relaxed, comfortable seating on the lawn in the near future – an inviting setting for summer evenings downtown.
Open Tuesday through Saturday from 11:30 am to 9:00 pm (with extended hours planned to accommodate post-theatre crowds), Betty’s Wine Bar is poised to become a fun go-to gathering place for locals and visitors alike!
For more information, find Betty’s in our online directory!
