In response to Google Maps renaming Lake Ontario to Lake America for U.S.-based users, Carson’s Pizzeria in Niagara Falls has taken a similar approach with its menu. This decision follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive order to change the lake’s name amid rising tensions and trade disputes.
Co-owner Richard Carpenter stated, “If you can rename whatever you want for your country, well then, we can do the same thing over here.” Consequently, the Buffalo chicken sandwich has been rebranded as the “Ontario wing sauce chicken sandwich,” and the Chicago Deep Dish is now called the Thorold-style Deep Dish Pizza.
The pizzeria’s Facebook post announcing the temporary menu changes has received positive feedback from Canadians nationwide. Carpenter emphasized that the modifications are humor-driven and not permanent. Carson’s Pizzeria is among several businesses in the region making symbolic adjustments in response to the name alteration.
Katherine McMichael, owner of Lady Lou Collective in Niagara-on-the-Lake, expressed her stance, stating, “It is Lake Ontario, and it won’t change.” McMichael, who showcases Canadian-made art and gifts in her shop, underlined her commitment to supporting Canadian businesses and products.
While McMichael’s business has felt some impact from the Canada-U.S. trade tensions, particularly regarding shipping to the U.S., she remains optimistic. Shauna Dickson, owner of Irish Design, also in Niagara-on-the-Lake, uses Lake Ontario as a geographical reference point for her boutique. Dickson, born and raised in the area, acknowledged the personal significance of the lake’s name change and emphasized the importance of maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for American customers amidst the current political climate.
Both McMichael and Dickson highlighted the importance of fostering positive relationships between the two countries, despite the challenges posed by ongoing trade disputes.