Ben Eoin & The Mermaid Kitchen

Story by: Alicia Lake

Eggs benedict with a side of kale and sweet potato

A nice steady climb along a well-worn path, Ben Eoin Trail leads you through large old Birch and Beech trees. At the top of the small mountain, the look-off offers views of East Bay of the Bras d’Or Lakes like no other. The 1.7 KM hike starts at the Ben Eoin Provincial Park. The trail is well marked.

Pro-Tip – Bring binoculars. Great trail for bird watching.

GPS Coordinates: N45. 57.750 W 60. 27.650

Recommended Restaurant: >Selkie’s Neighbourhood Diner – 390 Charlotte St, Sydney (25 min drive)

A great spot for quick but high-quality comfort food. The menu changes with the seasons and the day, but they always have to grab-and-go breakfast sandwiches, tasty soups and creative sandwiches.

Recommended Dish – Eggs Benny is a must! Served with Hasselback potatoes and delicious local kale.

Pro Tip – Drop by before your hike to grab a big delicious cinnamon roll for a snack on the trail!

A woman holds a plate with a sandwich and salad

Alicia Lake | Local Culinary Ambassador

Alicia Lake is a lifelong resident of Victoria County, Cape Breton, and a self-proclaimed local food fanatic. She holds an MBA in Community Economic Development, as well as undergraduate degrees in Community Studies and Political Science. Alicia has a great deal of experience working in various areas of the local food sector and is extremely passionate about good food and the local food economy. Alicia is the founder of the Baddeck and Area Community Market, and the 50% Local Food Club. She is currently the Executive Director of the Pan Cape Breton Food Hub Co-op, an on-line marketplace for local foods in Cape Breton.

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