Gravenhurst is known as the gateway to Muskoka. If you’re planning a road trip to Muskoka you’ll want to stop in Gravenhurst to catch some sights and food! You’ll find a ton of great Gravenhurst restaurants throughout town. There’s a wide variety of options to choose from like seafood with awesome water views to brews with tasty bites. So, consider planning your Muskoka getaway with these awesome places to eat in Gravenhurst!
Best Gravenhurst Restaurants
The majority of the Gravenhurst restaurant scene is located downtown along Muskoka Road. Another spot to explore and find good eats is along the Muskoka Wharf overlooking the historic Muskoka steamships. So, if you’re planning a cottage getaway and are looking for restaurants in Gravenhurst to add to your vacation we’ve got a mighty list for you!
Dock of the Bay Steak & Seafood Grille
Gravenhurst is home to one of the best patios in Muskoka! Perched along the Gravenhurst Wharf you’ll find Dock of the Bay Steak & Seafood Grille. Their covered patio offers incredible views of the bay and is a great spot to watch the sunset.
Dock of the Bay has a large menu and serves up the best steak in town! However, you’ll find a long list of gourmet meals and appetizers that include a variety of pasta and seafood dishes. They are known for their incredible Dock Steaks, which are the highest AAA and Canadian prime. Coming in 8 to 12 ounces, all of their steaks are aged for 40 days and hand cut in house.
The award-winning Gravenhurst restaurant is home to Executive Chef Darren Hehir. He describes the menu as “a global culinary fusion.” Dock of the Bay ensures that their food is prepared with quality fresh ingredients. If you’re looking to whet your whistle, you’ll find a large wine list that includes bottles from around the world that pair perfectly with the menu.
Fun Fact: The owner did indeed name it after the famous song (Sittin’ On) The Dock of The Bay by Otis Redding.
Dock of the Bay Steak & Seafood Grille Information
Address: 1110 Bay St, Gravenhurst
Hours: Currently closed and will reopen in May 2022
Take Out: Yes
Reservations: Yes, but not required 705-687-7723
Average Price per Person: $30 – $60
The Oar Restaurant
One of the most beautiful Gravenhurst restaurants is The Oar Restaurant. Located right downtown, The Oar provides an upscale cozy atmosphere, where pub meets casual fine dining. The focal point of the main dining room is a beautiful birch bark canoe hanging centre stage.
The Oar Restaurant has something for everyone on their menu, form burgers to falafel. They also have a variety of vegetarian and vegan-friendly option. However, some of the most popular dishes include their fish and chips, calamari, and wild boar burger.
What pairs well with their fine, fresh, elevated pub fare? Well, they have over a dozen beers on tap, most of which are from local Ontario craft breweries.
The Oar Restaurant Information
Address: 530 Muskoka Rd N, Gravenhurst
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 12pm – 7:30pm, Closed Sunday and Monday
Take Out: Yes
Reservations: Yes, and highly recommended (705) 687-8618
Average Price per Person: $15 – $30
Taboo Resort’s Boathouse Restaurant
On the shores of Lake Muskoka, less then 10 minutes north of downtown Gravenhurst, you’ll find one of the best Muskoka resorts, Taboo. Welcoming guests for nearly 100 years, Taboo Resort is a great place to stay in Muskoka and is home to spacious suites, a golf course, a restaurant, and so much more.
Overlooking Lake Muskoka sits Taboo’s Boathouse Restaurant. With a pure Muskoka vibe indoor and a sweeping patio with gorgeous views of the water, it’s a hit with locals and visitors. During the summer months you’ll often catch local’s cruising up to the dock in their boats to grab a bite to eat.
Taboo’s Boathouse Restaurant offers contemporary Canadian cuisine. Ex-football player turned Chef, Adedeji Oduwole helped create the restaurant’s menu. Some of the highlights include juice burgers, crispy fried fish tacos, and a Mediterranean Platter that will transport you a world away.
Taboo Resort’s Boathouse Restaurant Information
Address: 1209 Muskoka Beach Rd, Gravenhurst
Hours: Check their website here for current Take Out Only hours
Take Out: Yes
Reservations: Yes, (705) 687-2233
Average Price per Person: $30 – $60
Sawdust City Brewing
One of the best breweries in Muskoka can be found in downtown Gravenhurst. Sawdust City Brewing Company is all about sustainable practices and creating exceptional craft beer from the finest of ingredients. You can’t miss this massive brewery along the Frank Miller Memorial Route! It’s a popular stop for those taking a Muskoka road trip thanks to its big yellow Muskoka chair in the parking lot.
The facility is home to a canning line, barrel-aging room, retail store, and a tap room. Paying homage to Muskoka’s logging history, their tap room is home to a 24-foot live edge bar that was created out of a 100-year-old pine tree. They have 12 draught lines as well as a list of wines, ciders, and non-alcoholic beverages. For tasting flights, you can choose from four, five or twelve of their award-winning beers.
Along with a range of craft beers you’ll also find an awesome patio and some tasty food options. As with many breweries, Sawdust City has a limited food menu. However, the food is always dynamite! In the summer, you’ll find an old Airstream serving up Belly Ice Cream. Made from scratch and using fresh, local ingredients, including 100% Ontario cream, a refreshing cone is a must! When I visited, I opted for their garlic-parm fries, but you’ll find an assortment of food truck and BBQ-inspired items on the menu.
Fun Fact: Before it the town was called Gravenhurst it was Sawdust City!
Brewery tours are currently suspended due to the pandemic.
Sawdust City Brewing Company Information
Address: 397 Muskoka Rd N, Gravenhurst
Hours: Check out their Facebook page here for up-to-date hours of operation
Take Out: Yes, (705) 681-1100
Reservations: N/A
Average Price per Person: $20 – $30
Old Mill Family Restaurant
Serving up one of the best all-day breakfasts, the Old Mill Family Restaurant is the spot to go for all the classics. Located in a historic building downtown, this family run eatery is where you’ll find the best breakfast in Gravenhurst! They serve all your classics like bacon and eggs and omelets, along with pancakes made from scratch.
If you’re looking for cozy, traditional, family friendly Gravenhurst restaurants, Old Mill is the one! Beyond their famous breakfasts, they serve all the typical dinner fare with a focus on home made. Another popular menu item is their British-style fish and chips. You can get your pick of halibut, haddock, or cod fish! Plus, it comes hand battered to order with fresh cut fries and creamy house made coleslaw.
Vegetarians will also find something to suit their tastes! Old Mill Family Restaurant has a variety of vegetarian options, including their homemade vegetable burgers.
Be sure to check out their newest addition, the Old Mill Corner Café! The café is all about exciting drinks like milkshakes, real fruit smoothies, as well as desserts too!
Old Mill Family Restaurant Information
Address: 155 Muskoka Rd S, Gravenhurst
Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday 9am – 8pm and closed Monday
Take Out: Yes
Reservations: Not necessary (705) 687-1006
Average Price per Person: $15 – $20
Relish
One of the best Gravenhurst restaurants is Relish Kitchen & Market! They first opened at the Gypsy Market Mews, but now have their own space in a beautiful old church. This historic building survived the Great Fire of Gravenhurst in 1887 and is now home to a health-conscious restaurant and café.
The focus at Relish is fresh food and sustainable living. Their café and marketplace have everything from sandwiches and cookies to fresh salads and sustainable products. You can opt to dine in or grab your goods to-go. Inside you’ll find a cute little spot to eat where you’re surrounded by plants. While on the porch you’ll find a few seats to dine al fresco too.
If you’re looking for healthy places to eat in Gravenhurst, Relish is where it’s at! As the owner’s said, their “goal is to create nutrient dense food, with options for every dietary restriction.” So, no matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it at Relish, including gluten free, keto, vegan, and more.
Relish Information
Address: 240 Muskoka Rd N, Gravenhurst
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 9am – 4pm and Closed Monday & Sunday
Take Out: Yes, (705) 826-3968
Reservations: Not currently
Average Price per Person: $10 – $20
Shelby’s Chipwagon
If you’re in search for one of the best food trucks in Muskoka, you’re in luck! Tucked down a side street you’ll find Shelby’s Chipwagon. For over 20 years, this seasonal food truck has continued to win over both locals and visitors with its tasty cheap eats!
After losing her job, the owner, Sherry Martin seized a chance opportunity to purchase a local chip wagon. She named it after her daughter, who is now in her 20s and working there too!
Shelby’s Chipwagon has all the food truck essentials like hotdogs, fries, and poutines. However, they also have chicken fingers, hamburgers (including a meatless option, fried pickles, and more! They are known for their poutines. Plus, if you’re looking for small portions or kid-friendly items, they also have children’s sizes.
So, if you’re looking for one of the best Gravenhurst restaurants to visit during the summer then pop over to Shelby’s! They’re open from early May through October and have picnic tables set up for you too!
Fun Fact: Shelby’s Chipwagon is quite the star! Not only has it been featured in a play and on the Vinyl Cafe with Stuart Mclean but Sarah Mclachlan has even visited!
Shelby’s Chipwagon Information
Address: 191 Sharpe St E, Gravenhurst
Hours: Seasonal. Check their Facebook page here for up-to-date information
Take Out: Yes, (705) 646-8372
Reservations: No
Average Price per Person: $5 – $10
Blue Willow Tea Shop
One of the best Ontario tea rooms is the Blue Willow Tea Shop in Gravenhurst. Overlooking the steamships, Blue Willow has a scenic location along the Muskoka Wharf. In addition to being one of the top Gravenhurst restaurants, Blue Willow has quickly become a top thing to do in town thanks to their classic afternoon teas.
Named after the classic English China that they use for their tea services, Blue Willow Tea Shop offers both high tea and afternoon tea. Afternoon teas come with your choice of sandwich, assorted scones with cream and preserves, a Chef’s selection of sweets, and your choice of tea. Their High Tea comes with a selection of tea sandwiches, assorted scones with Devon Cream and preserves, as well as a variety of sweets and tea. Blue Willow has over 30 teas to choose from! So, there’s tea to suit everyone’s fancy.
You can dress down or dress up in your Sunday best for afternoon tea at Blue Willow. Their dining rooms is a lovely mix of elegance and quirky English casual. Plus, during the summer months they have a twelve-seat patio so you can sip your tea in the sun!
Fun Fact: They are currently offering high tea and afternoon tea kits for take-out!
Blue Willow Tea Shop Information
Address: 900 Bay St, Gravenhurst
Hours: Temporary Hours – Closed Monday – Friday, Open Saturday & Sunday 10am – 4pm
Take Out: Yes
Reservations: Yes, (705) 687-2597
Average Price per Person: $30 – $35
Pizza One
Who can resist the craving for pizza? If you’re craving a slice then head to the best pizza restaurant in Gravenhurst, Pizza One! This cozy mom and pop pizza joint is a great spot for take out or lunch in Gravenhurst. However, if you’re looking to dine in, you can do that too. Their interior is pure Muskoka with its cottage décor. Plus, they also have a great patio to sit and enjoy your pizza while watching the town buzz by.
Pizza One serves organic stone baked pizzas and uses local ingredients whenever possible. You’ll find a wide range of classic styles and some interesting concoctions. A few crowd favourites at pizza pies to try include their Chicken Bruschetta, Perogy Pie, and Ocean Delight. They also offer a bunch of great vegetarian pizzas too. The Mediterranean with white sauce, spinach, sundried tomatoes and more is one of the best!
If you love dips then you’ve got to try one of the many dipping sauces! For only a dollar extra you can choose from a long list of interesting sauces like Thai Pesto, Salsa, Garlic, and a variety of spicy ones too! Along with a list of incredible pizzas to choose from, Pizza One also has stone baked wings, wraps, quesadillas, salads, and more!
Pizza One Information
Address: 480 Muskoka Rd S, Gravenhurst
Hours: Monday to Friday 11:30am – 8pm, Saturday 4 – 8pm, Closed Sunday
Take Out: Yes, (705) 681-1122
Reservations: No
Average Price per Person: $10 – $20
More Places to Eat in Gravenhurst
There is an endless list of great places to eat in Gravenhurst! Whether you’re looking for family friendly dining options or fast food for on the go adventures there is a place for you in town!
Mornin’ Babe – If you’re looking for a great place to grab a coffee in Gravenhurst pop into Mornin’ Babe. The owner, Jenna, has an infectious personality that will give you a buzz as much as her coffee! She uses Pilot Roasters Coffee and serves up a range of incredible baked goods. The café is also home to Rustix Design, which sells a mix of purely Canadian home décor. Mornin’ Babe is one of the best coffee shops in Muskoka!
Tastebuds Ice Cream & Poutinerie – Whether you’re looking for some solid street food or an ice cream Tastebuds is the place to go in Gravenhurst! Tastebuds is generally open from spring to fall. They’re home to some of the best poutines in Gravenhurst, with all sorts of concoctions! You can also find a rotating menu, baked goods, and Kawartha Dairy ice cream!
The Bakery – Owned and operated by the Rebelein family since 1959, The Bakery is a staple in town. They are known for their incredible baked goods and breads that result in excited line ups in the summer! Along with delicious breads, like their Muskoka Rye, they have some of the best donuts in Ontario!
Well Fed Inc. – If you’re looking for healthy restaurants in Gravenhurst head to Well Fed Inc. They’re dedicated to serving healthy, comfort foods with ingredients sourced from local farmers, beekeepers, butchers, and the like. With a range of menu items, you’ll find something to suit your craving here! However, Well Fed is known for their incredible sandwiches, so we recommend starting with one of these!
Rombos Family Restaurant – For those looking for a family friendly restaurant in Gravenhurst a great choice is the Rombos Family Restaurant. There’s something on the menu for even the pickiest of eaters! They have everything, Greek, Italian, pizza, chicken wings, and a kid’s menu. Plus, they also have a great breakfast menu!
Things to do in Gravenhurst
With all these amazing Gravenhurst restaurants you’re going to need to get some adventures in to burn off all that food! Theirs is a ton of things to do in Gravenhurst that will suit everyone’s interests. You’ll find historic sites, scenic places, and plenty of outdoor adventures.
- A great place to start exploring is along the Muskoka Wharf. Here you’ll find a ton of great things to do in Gravenhurst! A scenic boardwalk wraps around the Gravenhurst Bay of Lake Muskoka. There’s also a variety of shops, places to eat, and the Muskoka Discovery Centre. The Discovery Centre is a great museum to learn about the area’s history and is perfect for families.
- One of the biggest attractions in Gravenhurst can also be found along the Muskoka Wharf. That’s the Muskoka Steamships! Climb aboard the oldest operating steamship in North America, the RMS Segwun. For over 130 years this historic ship has taken tourists out on cruises of the always beautiful Lake Muskoka. Sightseeing cruises also include scenic fall tours and dinner cruises.
- If you’re looking for more museums and historic sites in Gravenhurst you’ll find both in one place at the Bethune Memorial House National Historic Site. The Bethune Memorial House is where Dr. Norman Bethune spent his childhood. This surgeon, humanitarian, and veteran accomplished a lot in his short life. The museum is filled with exhibits that showcase the doctor’s many successes.
- A 25 minute drive west of Gravenhurst is a park that is a must-visit! Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve is the world’s first permanent dark-sky preserve. The park covers over 4,500 acres and is home to three hiking trails. The big draw is the incredible darkness that makes the stars sparkle bright. If you’re visiting Gravenhurst during a meteor shower or when any other sky phenomenon is going on, be sure to visit Torrance Barrens!
- If you’re looking for free things to do in Gravenhurst or some outdoor fun then head to the Tree Museum. This is not your traditional museum. Open-air rugged art gallery meets Muskoka hike is more apt a description. Just outside downtown Gravenhurst, the Tree Museum is a lovely stretch of Muskoka wilderness that is ideal to hike from spring through fall. The trail is littered with an interesting mix of art installations.
Where to Stay in Gravenhurst
There are a number of great options for vacation rentals and hotels in Gravenhurst. You’ll find an array of accommodations, from pet friendly hotels to family friendly. Here are some recommendations on where to stay when in town.
Residence Inn by Marriott Gravenhurst Muskoka Wharf – One of the best Gravenhurst hotels is the Residence Inn by Marriott! With an ideal location along the Muskoka Wharf, you’re close to great restaurants as well as top attractions. The Residence Inn amenities include a complimentary hot breakfast and indoor pool to start and suites offer kitchenettes as well as fireplaces.
Taboo Muskoka – One of the top resorts in Muskoka is Taboo Muskoka. Located roughly 5 minutes from downtown Gravenhurst, the resort has a ton of great amenities on site. Along with contemporary rooms you’ll find a fabulous restaurant, nature trails, multiple pools, as well as equipment to use like kayaks and mountain bikes.
Howard Johnson by Wyndham – For those looking to stay downtown and close to many of the restaurants in Gravenhurst, the Howard Johnson by Wyndham is ideal. The hotel is less than a 10 minute walk into downtown and offers convenience, affordability and is one of the top family friendly hotels in town.
If the above accommodation options aren’t available, take a look at the map of Gravenhurst Ontario below for some more great places to stay in town.
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