Menu of Academy Hill Grill in Grafton, Ontario, Canada

Menu Overview

Academy Hill Grill, nestled at 252 Academy Hill Rd in Grafton, Ontario, emerges as a compelling destination for takeout aficionados craving a blend of classic and inventive comfort food. With a menu that gracefully bridges familiar favorites and bold culinary experimentation, this food truck turned local gem offers an array of choices that cater to diverse taste preferences, including vegan and gluten-free options.

The heart of Academy Hill Grill’s menu lies undoubtedly in its pizza selection. The standout here is the Dill Pickle Pizza — a daring creation featuring dill cream sauce, chopped dill pickles, mozzarella, finished with a ranch drizzle and fresh dill. This pizza transcends the ordinary, presenting a bright, tangy flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfyingly savory. As echoed by Jeff Dignard, who called it “the best pizza I have ever had,” this dish balances creative ingredients without overwhelming the palate, an achievement worth noting in the crowded pizza landscape.

Traditionalists will appreciate the Napolitano and Margherita pizzas. The Napolitano, layered with tomato sauce, mozzarella, anchovy, black olive, caper, and fresh garlic, offers a robust Mediterranean essence. Meanwhile, the Margherita remains a classic touchstone, simple yet executed with fresh basil and quality mozzarella, perfect for those who prefer elegant restraint over bold innovation.

For those seeking more substantial fare, the sandwich and burger offerings deliver hearty satisfaction. The Smoked Brisket Sandwich, loaded with smoked brisket, bacon jam, slaw, arugula, and smoky BBQ sauce, melds rich smoky flavors with a touch of sweetness and acidity that cuts through the richness effectively. The Ste. Anne’s Beef Burger is a solid staple, accompanied by garlic aioli, pickles, and fresh vegetables, with customizable add-ons like bacon or brie to elevate the experience. While the burger generally pleases, some reviewers felt it remained functional rather than extraordinary.

Academy Hill Grill shines brilliantly in their fries and poutine variants. Freshly-cut fries are crisp and well-seasoned, forming the perfect base for their poutines. The Pulled Pork Poutine and Smoked Brisket Poutine stand out with a blissful layering of savory meats, generous cheese curds, rich gravy, and a tempting drizzle of BBQ sauce. The Vegan Poutine is a commendable effort, utilizing dairy-free cheese curds and vegan gravy with sautéed mushrooms to satisfy plant-based cravings. However, some feedback suggests that presentation and packaging could be improved to maintain fry crispness and overall eating texture.

Tacos on the menu, such as the Tacos al Pastor and Brisket Tacos, offer an interesting twist but might benefit from additional condiments or sauces to cut through the richness and add complexity. The lack of classic accompaniments and a slightly dry texture were noted critiques, indicating an area ripe for menu refinement. The Philly Cheese “Steak” sandwich, a vegan option featuring roasted portobello mushrooms and vegan cheese sauce on ciabatta, resonates well within Academy Hill Grill’s inclusive menu philosophy.

Customer experiences often highlight the attentive, friendly staff and their strong commitment to gluten allergy accommodations. This attentiveness extends to a welcoming environment within the associated Ste Anne’s Bakery garden area, providing a relaxed spot to enjoy the food away from the 401 corridor’s hustle.

In summary, Academy Hill Grill serves as an innovative beacon for comfort food in the Grafton area. Its daring pizza creations, particularly the Dill Pickle, combined with handcrafted poutines and thoughtful vegan inclusions, make it a destination worth visiting. While certain items like the tacos could see improvement, the overall freshness, flavor palette, and conscientious service deliver a memorable takeout experience. For travelers seeking a quick yet satisfying bite off the beaten path, Academy Hill Grill offers an admirable blend of homage and originality in casual dining.