If you’re looking for a quaint and cozy destination in Ontario, Manitoulin Island should be at the top of your list. Not only is it the world’s largest freshwater island but natural beauty abounds! With its original name being Odawa Mnis which translates to ‘spirit island’, there’s something truly magical about this place. Whether you’re putting your feet up at a cottage or need fuel to explore, these Manitoulin Island restaurants have plenty of great eats for you to enjoy during your stay!
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Little Current Restaurants
The first community you’ll visit upon leaving the mainland, Little Current is your year-round access to Manitoulin Island. With an adorable main strip with a number of local shops and great views of Lake Huron’s North Channel, these are the top restaurants in Little Current for a bite to eat.
For more recommendations, check our our Little Current restaurant guide!
Anchor Inn Hotel
A staple of Manitoulin Island since 1888, The Anchor Inn Hotel is a full-service hotel with a fantastic restaurant on site. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, you’ll find a variety of meal options. The Anchor Inn serves up classic items such as bacon and eggs, omelettes and French toast for breakfast. For lunch, one can enjoy a number of handhelds, salads and fish dishes. You can enjoy their lunch options during dinner hours or have one of their main dishes such as ribs, pasta, fajitas and more.
Since you’re on the island, we highly recommend enjoying one of their fish dishes. Sourced right from the waters surrounding the island, sink your teeth into fresh whitefish, trout or cod. Lindsay absolutely loved the Anchor Inn’s whitefish salad. Mixed lettuce greens and fresh vegetables are tossed in their housemade maple vinaigrette and topped with a piece of maple walnut-crusted grilled whitefish. This lighter dish is packed with protein and flavour!
Anchor Inn Hotel Information
Address: 1 Water Street East, Little Current, ON P0P 1K0
Hours of Operation: Wednesday Through Sunday from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm, Closed Mondays & Tuesdays
North 46 Restaurant
Located inside the Manitoulin Island Hotel and Conference Centre, both the hotel and restaurant are Indigenous-owned and operated. You’ll be treated to beautiful views from inside the restaurant as well as on their seasonal outdoor patio. Soak up the views of the LaCloche Mountain range as well as Lake Huron’s North Channel.
With a focus on using fresh products sourced locally from the region whenever possible, North 46 gives patrons a taste of Indigenous-influenced cuisine. Have a taste of wild game meat with their bison chili or take it to the next level with their Anishinaabe Taco. If you have never had bannock before, the taco is not to be missed! Indigenous-style fry bread is topped with their bison chili along with lettuce, tomatoes and shredded cheese. Salsa and sour cream are on the side and can be added to taste. You just might not go back to your traditional taco after trying this!
North 46 Information
Address: 66 Meredith St E, Little Current, ON P0P 1K0
Hours of Operation: Daily from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
Restaurants in Providence Bay
Well known for its fantastic sunsets, Providence Bay is another top destination on Manitoulin Island. Here are the top restaurants in Providence Bay as you explore this adorable community on the southern shore.
The Mutchmor and Providence Peace Café
Situated in the southern port town of Providence Bay is one of the coolest cafes on Manitoulin Island. The Mutchmor and Providence Peace Café is located within a historic building that’s now a community hub. Along with the Peace Café, the massive 10,000 square foot building is home to an art gallery and antique shop. The shop is full of fun retro finds as well as cool Manitoulin Island souvenirs. Plus, above the café are three stylish lofts that offer dreamy accommodation on the island!
The Mutchmor opened in 2016 and is the dream of a creative and world travelling couple who fell in love with the island. In addition, the space hosts a number of community events, as well as yoga and meditation classes. Plus, this enterprising couple also own the Lake Huron Fish & Chips Restaurant across the street.
Tucked in the corner of the large shop and gallery is where you’ll find the adorable Peace Café. It’s a great spot to grab some delicious baked goods like the Peace Cookie or a tasty sandwich. The Peace Café offers an assortment of specialty coffees, teas, and other beverages. Steph highly recommends their iced Chai latte!
Insider Tip:
Swing around the side of the building to check out their incredible mural by international artists Shalak Attack, Flya Bruxa, and Bruno Smoky, which represents Manitoulin Island.
The Mutchmor and Providence Peace Café Information
Address: 5263 ON-551, Providence Bay, ON P0P 1T0
Hours of Operation: Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Closed Mondays
Lake Huron Fish & Chips
As we just mentioned, Lake Huron Fish & Chips is owned and operated by the fine folks of The Mutchmor. What you might not realize is that this little fish and chips stand predates The Mutchmor by a number of years! Visitors to Manitoulin have been coming to Lake Huron Fish & Chips for decades and that really speaks to the quality of these eats.
While they do have burgers and sausage, there’s a good chance you’re coming for their fish and chips. You’ll find whitefish and haddock on the menu, both of which can be enjoyed in the classic manner with a side of fries or you can try these tasty fish in burger form. Whether you choose protein from the land or the water, they’re all locally sourced so you’ll be sinking your teeth into some fresh eats. If you choose the fish and chips route, make sure you get the spicy tartar sauce. It’s made in-house and bursting with flavour!
Lake Huron Fish & Chips Information
Address: 20 McNevin St, Providence Bay, ON P0P 1T0
Hours of Operation: Thursday through Sunday from Noon to 8:00 pm in May & June, Daily from Noon to 8:00 pm in July & August (Open from Victoria Day Weekend until Labour Day)
Gore Bay Restaurants
Head to the north shore of Manitoulin Island where you’ll find the adorable town of Gore Bay. With an interesting history connected to the water, it’s been a port town since long before it was incorporated in 1890. Whether you arrive by boat or by car, you’ll want to fuel up at these fantastic restaurants in Gore Bay!
Buoy’s Eatery
Sitting right across from the water in Gore Bay is Buoy’s Eatery. For over a decade, this seasonal restaurant has fed locals and visitors alike. It’s home to one of the top restaurant patios on Manitoulin! With a colourful mix of umbrellas to shade guests from the sun, it offers a scenic view of the harbour and Gore Bay Marina.
Buoy’s Eatery is dedicated to using local farmers, producers and food artisans from within 20 km to create their dishes. It’s all about celebrating local flavour here! Some of the local Manitoulin Island businesses and farms they use are Purvis Fisheries, Splitrail Brewing, and Burt Farms.
Best known for their amazing pizzas, Buoy’s Eatery has everything from vegetarian to build your own. There’s even a pizza called the Bonnyville that’s named after a notable local tug. Also available are stuffed crust and gluten-free pizzas. However, their menu also includes a local fish burger, pasta dishes, and more.
New for 2023, Buoy’s has committed to paying their servers a fair living wage, an incredible feat for a small local business. So, you’ll notice that the option to tip is removed from the debit machine when you cash out.
Insider Tip:
If you arrive to find that their patio is full, grab your pizza to-go and enjoy it on the pier!
Buoy’s Eatery & Takeout Information
Address: 1 Purvis Dr, Gore Bay, ON P0P 1H0
Hours of Operation: Wednesday through Sunday from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Closed Mondays & Tuesdays (open seasonally from the May long weekend to the end of September)
Manitoulin Pizza Company
That delicious pizza above? That’s thanks to Richard, the driving force behind the Manitoulin Pizza Company. When Buoy’s opened in 2009, he was thrilled to be a part of the crew in bringing the restaurant to life on the island. It didn’t take long for it to be known throughout the North Channel as the place to go for those savoury pies. With Buoy’s continued success over the years, Richard decided he wanted to branch out a little and spread the cheesy love around Manitoulin Island.
Fast forward to 2017 when the Manitoulin Pizza Company mobile truck was born! Spotted throughout the island, this lime green pizza house on wheels became a staple. Richard’s unique spin on pizza paired with utilizing the same grain in the dough as Split Rail’s beer made this a heavenly match. No wonder a pint tastes so good with a slice! You never know when he’ll be on the road so if you’re looking for the sure thing, head for Buoy’s Eatery to satisfy your pizza craving.
Manitoulin Pizza Company Information
Address: 1 Purvis Dr, Gore Bay, ON P0P 1H0 (Part of Buoy’s Eatery)
Hours of Operation: Wednesday through Sunday from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Closed Mondays & Tuesdays (open seasonally from the May long weekend to the end of September)
More Top Manitoulin Island Restaurants
With plenty of little communities scattered across the island, there are a number of great eats to be found! Here are a few more of our recommendations for the top Manitoulin Island restaurants.
Pierside Restaurant
One of the best Manitoulin Island restaurant patios can be found at Pierside Restaurant. Located in South Baymouth, on the south-east end of the Island, the restaurant has a massive patio. And the best part is that it’s situated right across from where the Chi-Cheemaun comes in to dock! Along with typical tables there’s also ‘bar’ seating along the rail of the patio that offers an awesome view of boat coming in. Even when the boat isn’t there, you’ll enjoy scenic views of the water! Plus, it’s the largest pet-friendly patio on Manitoulin Island!
Since 1987, this family owned and operated restaurant has been a favourite to many. Interestingly, it was one of the first buildings in the small town. For over 30 years, they’ve been dishing out fabulous comfort food that’s often made from locally sourced ingredients.
The top menu item at Pierside Restaurant is their Signature Fish & Chips. Made with a decade’s old recipe, the whitefish is seasoned with fresh ingredients, lightly battered and served English-style. However, there’s something to suit everyone’s craving on their massive menu. Other crowd pleasers are their Chicken Caeser Wrap and Classic House Burger, which both pair well with a Manitoulin craft beer. Both of which are on tap here. In addition to lunch and dinner, Pierside serves a hearty breakfast too! There’s also a kid’s menu.
Travel Tip:
Browse the Manitoulin Trading Post gift shop next door while you’re waiting for a table.
Pierside Restaurant Information
Address: 6 Water St, South Baymouth, ON P0P 1Z0
Hours of Operation: Daily from 8:30 am to 8:30 pm
The Garden’s Gate Restaurant
For over 30 years and counting, this late 1800s farmhouse has been home to one of the top Manitoulin Island restaurants – The Garden’s Gate. With a rich history as a destination for travellers to come and tie up their horses to enjoy a hearty meal back in the old days, Rose and John Diebolt sought to keep that trend of warm hospitality alive when they took over in 1991. Whether you’re popping in during your travels or looking for a place to celebrate something special, you’ll enjoy a memorable meal at The Garden’s Gate.
You’ll feel like a fairy as you settle in for your meal surrounded by stunning gardens. The Garden’s Gate has a wide range of menu items without the options being overwhelming. Whether you’re craving pasta, schnitzel, duck, risotto… they have you covered. Their Manitoulin Lake Trout Dinner is a big hit along with the Grandview Farms Manitoulin Steak Dinner but honestly, every item on the menu sounds incredibly tasty. We don’t think you could choose wrong! Especially since everything is freshly made in-house and produce is sourced locally whenever possible.
The Garden’s Gate Information
Address: 316-542 Highway, Tehkummah, ON P0P 2C0
Hours of Operation: Tuesday through Saturday from Noon to 8:00 pm, Closed Sundays & Mondays
Maja’s Garden Bistro
This adorable artisan bakery in Mindemoya offers light and healthy eats perfect for lunch or an early dinner. Pick up some delicious baked goods to go or enjoy a peaceful meal as you enjoy one of Maja’s quiches, sandwiches, soups or salads. Everything pairs beautifully with their organic tea grown right there in the garden! Maja’s is certainly not to be missed whenever you find yourself near the heart of the island in Mindemoya.
On Wednesday and Friday evenings, Maja’s is the place to be for their Gourmet Garden Gigs. Enjoy a set menu timed to perfection as you enjoy a delicious evening of the musical and culinary arts. Things kick off right at 6:00 pm with appetizers which you can enjoy as you meander the gardens where many of your meal’s ingredients are found. Music kicks off at 6:30 pm with two one-hour sets and a short intermission at 7:30 when your main course will be delivered. Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan or a carnivore, you will certainly leave satisfied! Reservations are required so book online to avoid disappointment!
Maja’s Garden Bistro Information
Address: 6152 King St, Mindemoya, ON P0P 1S0
Hours of Operation: Wednesdays & Fridays from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm, Saturdays, Sundays & Monday from 12:30 pm to 6:30 pm, Closed Tuesdays & Thursdays (Open July 1 to August 30)
Manitoulin Island Things to Do
Looking for some activities to help you work up an appetite as you explore this part of Ontario? Don’t miss these top things to do on Manitoulin Island!
- Check Out Little Current’s Swing Bridge – Home to the only stoplight on the island, this is your year-round access point to Manitoulin Island. This is one of the top spots to catch the sunrise on the island!
- Hike the Cup and Saucer Trail – The most iconic Manitoulin Island hike, it’s a bit of a trek to get to the top but the views from the lookouts are worth it!
- Admire the Talented Works Found at the Perivale Art Gallery – Consistently ranked as one of the top art galleries in Ontario, the Perivale Art Gallery features incredible works from local artists. From oil painters to stained glass artists, you’ll be blown away at the works you find within the gallery’s walls.
- Explore The Only Federally Recognized Unceded Indigenous Territory – Wikwemikong is the area on the eastern side of the island that has never had a treaty with the Crown. They have a number of incredible tours and experiences that will teach you more about this history and share teachings that will widen your worldview. Click here to read more.
- Look Up at The Stars At the Manitoulin Eco Park – Previously known as Gordon’s Park, the Manitoulin Eco Park is one of Northeastern Ontario’s designated Dark Sky Preserves. Here you’ll find an assortment of activities such as stargazing hikes and astronomy nights though it’s still gorgeous to visit during the day!
- Grab a Pint at Manitoulin Brewing Company – Enjoy a craft beer on one of the best patios on Manitoulin Island! Another amazing Indigenous-owned company, enjoy their island-themed beers and cheers to summer with a snack at The Silo.
- Visit Bridal Veil Falls – One of the top things to do on Manitoulin Island, you have to pay a visit to the town of Kagawong where you’ll find the stunning Bridal Veil Falls. You can even walk right behind it and swim at the base of it!
This is just a quick highlight of all the great things to do on Manitoulin Island. For more, check out this amazing guide! As you can tell though, there’s so much to see on the world’s largest freshwater island that you’ll need to plan a getaway to experience it all. Take a look at the map below to see what Manitoulin Island hotels are best for your adventure!
Manitoulin Island makes a fantastic stop as a day trip from Tobermory or when on your way to more Northern Ontario destinations. If you’re continuing your adventure, you may want to check out our guide to the top restaurants in Sudbury as well as the best restaurants in Sault Ste Marie!
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