The Lancer Family Restaurant, located at 85 Hartzel Rd, St. Catharines, is renowned for its warm atmosphere and family-friendly vibes. Diners consistently praise the outstanding service, with many expressing appreciation for the welcoming staff. Mandy Kent's delightful experience showcased the quirky charm of "Cookie Monday," where guests receive free fresh cookies at the end of their meals, leaving a sweet impression. However, some reviews indicate inconsistency in service, highlighted by Brianna Freeswick's unfortunate encounter. Nevertheless, the owner's prompt apology reflects a commitment to customer satisfaction, reassuring patrons of their value.
The food truly steals the spotlight, with standout dishes like the made-from-scratch Eggs Benedict praised by Jamie Thompson. The combination of peameal bacon and exquisite hollandaise sauce has turned many first-time visitors into loyal fans. Add to this the cozy, well-lit environment—a perfect backdrop for memorable family gatherings—and it's no surprise that customers like Vanessa King and Lu Li are eager to return. With an array of delicious offerings and a touch of nostalgia in their coupon specials, The Lancer Family Restaurant is a local gem that invites you to make lasting memories over a comforting meal.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Serves great coffee
Has great tea selection
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves coffee
Quick bite
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Has counter service
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has gender-neutral toilets
Has toilet
Has Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Family friendly
Good for groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Popular with tourists
Transgender safe space
Popular with university students
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Photos
Reviews For The Lancer Family Restaurant
Mandy Kent
Jun 28,2025
This was our first time and we loved it. My dad and I had a wonderful meal in a great atmosphere. The service was awesome. Where else in the world does "Cookie Monday" exist where free fresh cookies are brought to your table at the end of your meal?!
Brianna Freeswick
Jun 8,2025
Always have loved going to the lancer. Figured i would go back bur for pick up today and boy was i disappointed when the lady working the floor ignored me when I walked in, looked at me gave me a dirty look then when I met her gaze and said that's my pick up order on the counter. She scoffed and walked over to it grabbed it and when I asked if there was a fork in the bag, with excess attitude her reply was how do I know. So I said don't worry about it and walked out. I miss the old staff never have I been treated this way here. Very disappointed. That said, the owner did come out and apologize, which I really appreciated. It meant a lot that he took the time to acknowledge what happened. I still love this place, and I’m hoping this was just a one-off.
Jamie Thompson
Jun 7,2025
Absolutely amazing food, I can not say enough about the staff and service!! Top notch in everyway, welcoming, friendly and very engaging staff. The Eggs Benedict with peameal bacon is awesome with their made from scratch hollandaise sauce is the best I have ever had. Do yourself a favor and COME HERE!!!
Vanessa King
Jun 3,2025
My Family and I absolutely enjoyed it staff polite and kind. Freshly baked cookies and lollipops was a real added bonus to our morning adventure beautifully! Definitely going back again!
Lu LI
May 30,2025
I really like this restaurant. The atmosphere is cozy, the prices are reasonable, and the service is excellent. You can enjoy a quiet meal with great lighting, providing a satisfying and comfortable experience. I will definitely come back!
Allison Chhoeun
Apr 13,2025
It truly feels like a family diner atmosphere from the past. The food is amazing, not too greasy, the service is warm and friendly. Hands down the best home fries in St. Catharine’s. Highly recommend!
Ewen Wilson
Apr 5,2025
Food is good but the five stars is for how they treated my daughter. Nicest silverware I’ve seen for a toddler at any restaurant. With free kids meals. Will be back
MR
Mar 29,2025
We visited this charming family-run establishment for the first time. Since we're not locals to St. Catherine's, we decided to stop by for breakfast on our way home. The atmosphere was clean and welcoming, and our waitress was fantastic. The staff frequently circulated to refill our coffee cups. The food was delightful! Normally, I avoid ordering sausage when dining out due to the fillers, but the sausage at Lancer restaurant was a pleasant surprise—flavorful and hearty. This restaurant has quickly become our favorite spot whenever we're in St. Cats. Highly recommended
Reviews For The Lancer Family Restaurant