There are many reasons to visit Huntsville and Lake of Bays…scenic vistas around every turn, endless outdoor adventures, and a wealth of arts and cultural attractions. Yet the incredible fare on offer at our local restaurants has put the region on the map as a coveted culinary destination. Coaxing you with fragrant spices, delicious fusions, and decadent sweets, the area is home to a diverse line-up of chefs, bakers, and food artists! Whether you are looking for a fine dining experience, a meal out with family and friends or some weekend comfort food, we’ve got the perfect restaurant, café or bakery to sate your desires. Check out our list of some of the region’s hottest foodie stops to include on your next savoury adventure, complete with unique must-try dishes.
Whimsical Bakery, located in the heart of historic downtown Huntsville, is the epitome of traditional ‘from-scratch’ baking. Fresh ingredients are combined by hand to produce a daily assortment of delicious baked goods, breads, pies and pastries. As their name suggests, Whimsical adds a sense of fun and delight to their bespoke creations. Every trip provides new flavours and original creations that will leave you wanting more.
With so many sweet treats, it’s impossible to choose just one! Whimsical has become a go-to destination for cakes, cookies, cupcakes and tarts. They don’t call themselves “The Sweetest Spot in Muskoka” for nothing, as their shop is practically overflowing with delectable treats to satisfy even the most discernible sweet tooth.
West Side Fish and Chips is Huntsville’s longest running family restaurant. Nearly 40 years ago one woman’s love for fish and chips sparked what has become a restaurant famous throughout Muskoka for its crisp batter and delicious fries. Featuring a full menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner and displaying more than 400 teapots (really!…read why here) West Side Fish and Chips remains a staple for friendly, family-focused dining.
No question here – you must try the fish and chips! The restaurant uses a family recipe for their batter, which is light and crisp with great flavour. Each order starts with hand dipped fresh fish cooked until golden brown. With the choice of haddock, white fish or Halibut and served with fresh cut fries, West Side is the destination for fish and chips aficionados.
Hidden Valley Resort Muskoka shares a secluded valley that also plays host to the region’s only downhill ski operation. Providing an exclusive lakeside atmosphere just minutes from downtown Huntsville, Hidden Valley combines classic Muskoka charm with world-class amenities. The Resort’s Birches Restaurant is a guest favourite and local hidden gem. Boasting panoramic views over Peninsula Lake, the restaurant has one of the largest decks in Muskoka – it even has a tree growing through it! Inside there is a traditional stone fireplace that provides a rich, warm atmosphere perfect for dinner with family and friends.
No trip to the resort would be complete without sampling their amazing Smoked Mozzarella and Basil Ravioli. Their delicate ravioli is filled with robust smoked mozzarella cheese and is served in a butter white wine sauce. Cherry tomatoes and confit garlic tease out a balance of flavour while the parmesan cheese and fresh arugula toppings add a touch of panache.
Farmer’s Daughter food market and restaurant in Huntsville has created a menu filled with fresh and wholesome ingredients that are sourced locally whenever possible. Owner Michelle Shabatura is a true daughter of a farmer, raised on a produce farm before starting the business in 2004. Their location offers ready-made components and raw ingredients to create sensational meals, as well as a large variety of breakfast options, sandwiches and soups for lunch, dinner items and sweet treats for dessert. Whether you take the time to eat in or get your meal to go, Farmer’s Daughter features a unique style and effortlessly blends intriguing flavours with delicious home-cooked fare.
The restaurant’s signature Maple Dijon Dill Salmon is one dish you do not want to miss. Fresh salmon pairs perfectly with the seasonal maple flavour for a dish that is one part sweet and one part savoury. Served on a bed of Farmer’s Daughter Original Heavy Greens and paired with maple glazed root vegetables, you will be raving about this meal long after your visit.
Family Place Restaurant and Pizza has been serving the Huntsville community for over 30 years. With classic home cooking and friendly service, this community institution is open for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Perfect for a meal out with family, the restaurant’s daily specials will take you back to the comfort foods of your childhood.
With pizza in the name, you know it won’t disappoint! Available in the dining room or to take out, Family Place Restaurant and Pizza creates the perfect crust every time. These pies start with a thin, light crust that is both crispy and chewy. Then choose from a mouth-watering assortment of toppings and cheeses to invent your own signature creation or let them cook you one of their tried and true favourites. Once you’ve tried their pizza we promise you’ll be back for more!
Nestled against the shores of Peninsula Lake, Deerhurst Resort has been exceeding expectations for over a century. Their Eclipse Restaurant is dominated by a wall of glass, punctuated by natural stone pillars, providing unparalleled views across the lake and over their scenic Lakeside Golf Course. A wrap-around deck provides an open-air atmosphere for al fresco dining. With classic Muskoka charm including a vaulted wood ceiling and chandeliers, Eclipse is open for breakfast and dinner, boasting Muskoka’s longest running Sunday brunch.
Smoked Bacon Lollipops with Maple Syrup – now that’s the definition of a must-try! The perfect comfort food appetizer, this modern take on a tasty favourite starts with double smoked bacon covered in maple syrup produced from the resort’s own sugar bush. The bacon is cooked until the syrup becomes caramelized, skewered and then rolled in a mixture of chopped peanuts and crushed pretzels. Garnished with frisée lettuce, seedlings, roasted cherry tomatoes, and served with a spicy Sriracha hot sauce on the side, the biggest challenge will be having to share these mouth-watering creations.
3 Guys And A Stove has been a favourite with both residents and visitors for over twenty years. Local chef Jeff Suddaby has a flair for combining local ingredients into dishes that will transport you around the world. Flavours, colours and textures intermingle to create a sensory experience that will linger long after your meal is finished. The Huntsville restaurant has an intimate atmosphere perfect for a date with that special someone or getting together with a group of family or friends. In the warmer months, sit outside on the patio and listen to the haunting cry of a loon from nearby Fairy Lake as you enjoy the gentle evening breeze. Serving lunch, dinner and their famous Weekend Marché Breakfast, 3 Guys has the perfect meal no matter what your taste buds crave.
At 3 Guys, take an edible voyage and try Chef Suddaby’s signature Mediterranean Rice. This sweet and spicy dish was inspired by the flavours of the southern coast of Spain and the freshness of the Mediterranean Sea. Delicate Basmati rice is mixed with an assortment of roasted root vegetables and flavoured with authentic spicy chilies and red pepper jelly. Kalamata olives, sweet raisins and feta cheese round out this palate-pleaser. And that’s not all – add your choice of seafood or red meat to take it to the next level. (Hint – try the seared Ontario Lamb!) This favourite is only available at 3 Guys And A Stove, so stop in next time you are in town and be whisked away to your own Mediterranean paradise.
Be sure to bring your appetite when you visit Huntsville and Lake of Bays. Whether you are craving traditional home cooking or are seeking your next culinary adventure, you are guaranteed to walk away with a full stomach and a story to tell your friends and family. Plan a day or a week and follow your senses through our epicurean offerings. Teeming with unique food, exceptional service and ambience to suit every taste, the region will whet your appetite and leave you hungry for more.
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