10+ Awesome Restaurants in Barrie For Seriously Great Eats

For those looking for great beaches, fun art and an eclectic mix of cuisines then Barrie is the destination you’re after. Set on the shores of Lake Simcoe’s Kempenfelt Bay, Barrie is known as Ontario’s premier lakefront community. This fast growing city is a popular day trip spot for Toronto travellers, whether they’re heading up to Muskoka or looking for a fabulous lakeshore. For those not from the city you’ll be surprised by the sheer number of restaurants in Barrie.

Top 10 Restaurants in Barrie

With so many options to choose from it can be a daunting task to choose where to eat in Barrie. Don’t worry! We have you covered with an epic list of the best Barrie restaurants across the city, alternative choices and how to plan for the perfect Barrie getaway.

North Country

Serving up the best barbecue dishes in Barrie, North Country is our top pick for restaurants in Barrie! With a perfect location in Barrie’s downtown, at the notorious 5 points intersection, and some of the best food in the city this restaurant has it all! North Country is where country bar meets elevated pub fare and all in a chic yet cozy environment.

Don’t want to barbecue tonight? Let North Country do the work and all you need to bring is a healthy appetite! As a noted barbecue joint, some of their most popular dishes include Smoked Brisket and Baby Back Ribs. But it’s not all about the meat here! Also on the menu is smoked jackfruit and our favourite smoked cauliflower bites. Be sure to come hungry as portion sizes are Texas sized!

Whether you’re in search of a great Barrie restaurant in the city centre or somewhere to enjoy live music and good eats then North Country is just what you’re looking for. This is the place to be in the summer as it’s home to one of the best patios in Barrie. Decked out with lights, shaded picnic benches and an Instagram-worthy wing mural, North Country’s patio ticks all the boxes.

North Country Information

Address: 10 Dunlop Street East
Hours: Monday – Sunday 11am – 9pm
Take Out: Yes, call (705) 252-1225
Reservations: Yes, call (705) 252-1225
Average Price Per Person: $20 – $40

Il Buco

One of the most award-winning Barrie Italian restaurants is Il Buco. Awards such as the Top Italian Restaurant in Simcoe County and one of the 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in Canada prove that Il Buco is a place you don’t want to miss. Located in the city center, it has the perfect location and one of the best patios in Barrie overlooking the waters of Kempenfelt Bay.

Il Buco delivers the best Italian cuisine in Barrie. They pride themselves in creating authentic Italian dishes using only the freshest of ingredients. For over ten years, Il Buco has delighted the palates of many locals and visitors.

Their menu has an incredible line-up from salads to appetizers to pasta. Gluten free pasta is also an option. A couple of must-try entrees are the Pollo Florentina, a chicken breast stuffed with goat cheese and spinach in a Dijon cream sauce, and their lasagna.

What pairs well with a glass of wine and sweeping patio views of Barrie’s lakeshore? Il Buco’s delectable Italian food! So, if you’re looking for one of Barrie’s best city centre restaurants with a view then reserve a seat at Il Buco.

Il Buco Information

Address: 31 Dunlop Street East
Hours: Tuesday – Thursday 11:30am – 9pm Friday 11:30am – 10pm Saturday 5pm – 10pm Sunday & Monday Closed
Take Out: Yes, call (705) 735-9595
Reservations: Yes, call (705) 735-9595 or order online
Average Price Per Person: $25 – $50

Bacio Trattoria

Another fabulous Barrie Italian restaurant is Bacio Trattoria. With a fun, hip and retro interior, you’ll love their food and the vibe.

This family restaurant, run by a son, sister and mother trio that were born in Peru but spent many years living and eating in Italy are proud to specialize in Italian cuisine. It may be considered a fine dining restaurant but you’ll feel right at home, without the need to do dishes after dinner.

At Bacio Trattoria they use only high-quality and fresh ingredients. It doesn’t get any further than fast food here as everything is made from scratch and expertly cooked fresh to order.

The menu is bursting with incredible dishes that range from pasta to seafood and even thin crust pizza! Along with their pizza, other guest favourites include their gnocchi and risotto. Save room for dessert! You’ll find a range of delightful desserts like their homemade gelato and tiramisu.

If you really want to taste the best of what Bacio Trattoria has to offer then consider trying their four-course Chef’s Weekly Signature menu. These four-course options showcase some of the best of Italian specialties as well as offer wine pairings for your menu choice.

So, if you’re looking for a slice of Italy right here in Barrie, in both style, environment and taste then head to Bacio Trattoria.

Bacio Trattoria Information

Address: 62 Dunlop Street West
Hours: Monday, Wednesday – Friday 12pm – 10pm Saturday & Sunday 3pm – 10pm Tuesday – Closed
Take Out: Yes, call 705-252-3355
Reservations: Yes, call 705-252-3355
Average Price Per Person: $30+

Casa Mia

A staple in downtown Barrie for over 25 years, Casa Mia restaurant is where it’s at for the best Mediterranean food in town. Known for their blend of Greek and Italian cuisine served in a welcoming dining room, this family run restaurant will bring the warmth of the Mediterranean to you.

With a large selection on the menu that celebrates all the best Italian and Greek food, Casa Mia has something to satisfy everyone’s taste buds. They have everything from fresh seafood to a variety of pasta dishes.

Some popular choices include Parmigiana al Forno and Linguine Pacifico for team Italia. For team Greece try Souvlaki Nemeatiko or Chicken El Greco.

Along with their fine dishes they offer a great wine list and a select kid’s menu. Whether you’re looking for a great downtown restaurant for date night or where to take the family to celebrate a special occasion Casa Mia will win you over with their Mediterranean inspired interior and delicious food. And be sure to check out their specials for holidays!

Casa Mia Information

Address: 88 Dunlop Street West
Hours: Tuesday – Friday 11:30am – 8pm Saturday & Sunday 4pm – 8pm Monday Closed
Take Out: Yes, call (705) 737-3663
Reservations: Yes, call (705) 737-3663 or online
Average Price Per Person: $30 – $50

Dunlop Street Diner

Dunlop Street Diner’s Chef Amanda Rider brings boring old diner food out of the 50s and adds a modern flare to it. With a classic vintage vibe the Dunlop Street Diner is one of the best breakfast places in Barrie.

You’ll love the nod to the past with all the photos showcasing what Dunlop Street looked like 100 years ago, including the building that the Diner is now located in.

There’s something for every brunch lover’s craving, from a classic breakfast with eggs, bacon and home fries to Traditional French Waffles. One of the dishes they’re most known for is Eggs Benedict and for good reason!

You’ll be hard pressed to not to find an eggs benny that doesn’t suit your mood. With fun creations like the Little Italy Benny or The Notorious P.I.G their creative twists on a classic will keep you coming back to try them all.

Whether you’re looking for a great place to take your mom out for brunch or need fuel for your Barrie adventures then be sure to try Dunlop Street Diner. They use locally sourced ingredients, fresh bread made from scratch and have an extensive menu with vegetarian and gluten free options. As you can see, there are endless reasons to eat at Dunlop Street Diner.

Dunlop Street Diner Information

Address: 20 Dunlop Street East
Hours: Sunday – Saturday 7am – 3pm
Take Out: Yes, call (705) 252-6757
Reservations: N/A
Average Price Per Person: $15 – $25

Are you looking for more fun places to eat in Barrie area? Check out these fabulous Simcoe County food trucks!

Tara

Downtown Barrie offers a smorgasbord of flavours from around the world! And if you’re looking for Indian restaurants in Barrie then you’ll find two great choices along Dunlop. One of them is a crowd favourite in the city and has been around for over 30 years, making it Barrie’s oldest Indian restaurant. That crowning jewel is Tara.

Created and run by brothers Nur and Yar Mohammad, who are both head chefs, Tara Indian Cuisine offers something for everyone. You’ll find a range of budget-friendly, vegetarian and tempting tapas that are perfect for dining in or take out.

They have high standards when it comes to cooking and refrain from using MSG, animal fat, wine and use only natural ingredients in all of their recipes.

These warm and welcoming brothers bring the mouth-popping flavours of India to Barrie in a comfortable and casual atmosphere. And all while ensuring that every customer’s palates and dietary needs are satisfied.

If you want to try a whole host of different things consider trying their buffet option where you can enjoy an eight course meal that includes dessert! Whether you’re looking to test drive some new flavours or are craving authentic Indian cuisine then head to Tara to reignite your taste buds.

Tara Information

Address: 128 Dunlop St East
Hours: Monday – Sunday 12pm – 2:30pm & 5pm – 9pm Thursday Closed
Take Out: Yes, call (705) 737-1821
Reservations: Yes, call (705) 737-1821
Average Price Per Person: $15 – $30

Limoncello Bistro

One of Barrie’s hidden restaurant gems is Limoncello Bistro. While it’s located downtown, it is set off of a side street and has the perfect little patio. With privacy from the street and a string of pretty little lights it’s one of the most charming restaurant patios in Barrie. With Chef Francesco at the helm the city now has a slice of Sicily to savour.

Chef Francesco grew up in a Sicilian family and spent his childhood watching his Nonna and mother cook. After completing culinary school he went to study in Italy, where he perfected his skills.

He now is proud to call Barrie home and thrilled to bring his outstanding southern Italian menu to hungry guests at Limoncello Bistro. A few of our favourites from the menu are the Mini Rice Balls, Linguine Siciliani and the Eggplant Tower. They also have a range of pizzas, paninis and more!

With true Italian blood behind the reins and food that uses locally sourced and fresh ingredients Limoncello Bistro will win over any palate! Whether you’re looking for a cozy summer patio in Barrie or a romantic restaurant to win over that special someone in your life, Limoncello Bistro will have you singing Buon appetite!

Limoncello Bistro Information

Address: 41 Maple Avenue
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 4pm – 9pm Sunday & Monday Closed
Take Out: Yes, call (249) 880-4001
Reservations: Yes, call (249) 880-4001
Average Price Per Person: $20 – $40

Lockeroom Sports Bar & Grill

One of the best sports bars in Barrie is The Lockeroom! Celebrating 30 years in 2022, The Lockeroom Sports Bar & Grill is a favourite for locals, so it’s no surprise it has been voted Barrie’s best sports bar.

Whether you’re looking for one of the best places in Barrie for a burger or somewhere to watch the game with friends then The Lockeroom is the perfect spot in the north end of the city.

The menu at Lockeroom offers up all the classic comfort pub grub you’ll want and more! If you’re looking for the best chicken wings in Barrie theirs have been voted the BEST! You can order them naked or hand dusted with a range of mouth-watering wet or dry rubs.

They use locally raised, never frozen chicken wings and the house favourite is their dry rub Cajun sauce. For burger fans you’ll want to wrap your mouth around Lockeroom’s Famous Burger. It’s stacked with two Canadian beef patties, smoky bacon, peameal, Canadian cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, an onion ring, all on an Ace Bakery gourmet bun and topped with a dill pickle. They also have some of the best nachos in Barrie!

With 18 drafts on tap, awesome pub fare and a warm and inviting Cheers-like vibe you can’t go wrong with choosing The Lockeroom for dinner in Barrie! For sports fans you won’t miss a beat with every game being broadcasted playing on one of their many screens. Come hungry for an energy-filled meal and leave full and happy!

Lockeroom Sports Bar & Grill Information

Address: 201 Cundles Rd East
Hours: Sunday to Saturday 11am – 8pm
Take Out: Yes, call 705-720-9060
Reservations: Yes, call 705-720-9060
Average Price Per Person: $20 – $25

The Farmhouse

One of the most beautiful and historic buildings in Barrie is also home to one of the best restaurants in the city. Built in the early 1890’s as a hotel, The Farmhouse has a fabulous location next to the Allandale Railway Station, now for the GO Train, and right across from the lakeshore.

If you’re looking for Barrie restaurants with outdoor seating and sweeping views of Kempenfelt Bay then plan to dine at The Farmhouse.

The Farmhouse offers a Canadian cuisine inspired menu that’s diverse. Many consider them the best weekend breakfast places in Barrie and for many good reasons! They serve eggs benedict in a range of styles, use Feltis Maple Syrup from Sebright, Ontario, bread comes fresh from one of the top Barrie bakeries, Fox’s Bakery, and they make freshly squeezed juices daily. Dinner at The Farmhouse is just as fine with House Smoked BBQ Ribs, White Wine and Thyme Braised Chicken Supreme or their incredible Mac & Cheese.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect Barrie brunch spot or a fabulous dinner out, The Farmhouse restaurant will satisfy your craving. If you plan on visiting during the summer and want a great seat on one of Barrie’s best patios then be sure to make a reservation.

The Farmhouse Information

Address: 268 Bradford Street
Hours: Sunday – Saturday 12pm – 8pm
Take Out: Yes, call (705) 737-0522
Reservations: Yes, call (705) 737-0522 or online
Average Price Per Person: $20 – $40

Cocina Mexicana

When many think of all you can eat restaurants their first thought is Chinese food. Ricardo Serrano, Veronica Serrano and Ulises Hernandez brought a twist to buffets with Barrie’s first all you can eat Mexican buffet restaurant, Cocina Mexicana. Located in Barrie’s south end, it’s already won a host of awards ranging from Best Family Restaurant to Best Buffet in Barrie.

Cocina Mexicana serves up real authentic Mexican food. This isn’t Tex Mex! Along with a large selection of Mexican cuisine to choose from for their dinner buffet they also offer a brunch buffet and take out.

Food is sourced from local farmers when possible so you know your food is always fresh. Don’t forget to leave room for dessert too! A couple of popular choices are Pastel Tres Leches and the Classic Donas.

Whether you’re looking for a taste of Mexico or great family-friendly restaurants in Barrie then head to Cocina Mexicana. With a vibrant atmosphere, welcoming service and some of the best Mexican food in Barrie, this is one restaurant you’ll want to dine in. Don’t forget to come hungry!

Cocina Mexicana Information

Address: 144 Burton Avenue
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 4pm – 9pm Sunday 12pm – 5pm Monday Closed
Take Out: Yes, call (705) 503-4476
Reservations: Yes, call (705) 503-4476
Average Price Per Person: $25 – $30

More Great Barrie Restaurants to Try

With an endless array of restaurants in Barrie we had to add a few more places to consider eating at. Whether you’re looking for something light or a hearty burger the following places to eat in Barrie will satisfy any hungry belly!

Common Good Social House – For a fun and hip vibe head to Common Good Social House on Bayfield Street. As one of the best coffee shops in Barrie, it has it all, from great coffee to incredibly chic meals. It’s a great place to take your mother for Sunday brunch, your date for one of their live music nights or to meet friends for a bite to eat and a cocktail on the weekend. They serve up everything from falafel wraps to sweet pastries.

Royal Thai Cuisine – If you’re looking for one of the best Thai restaurants in Barrie then check out Royal Thai Cuisine. Serving up authentic and tasty Thai dishes and at affordable prices, it’s a win for dining in or take out.  A few must try dishes include their Chicken Pad Thai and Lemongrass Chicken. This long standing family run restaurant in Barrie has something for everyone.

Burger Royale – One of Barrie’s best burger joints is Burger Royale. For those craving a hearty burger with only the freshest ingredients then you’ll want to add this place to your list of Barrie restaurants to try! These mad burgers come stacked with epic toppings. They also have a tofu burger or chicken option for those looking for something different. And it wouldn’t be a classic diner without fab fries and fun milkshakes!

Groovy Tuesday’s Bistro – Another Barrie gem is the Groovy Tuesday’s Bistro. Serving up seasonal Canadian fare with a contemporary flare, you’ll love their mix of comfort food and fine dining dishes. Popular menu items are their risotto, Buddha Burger and any and all of their house made desserts. Be sure to visit often as their menu is always changing.

There are always new restaurants in Barrie to keep an eye on, like B’Spoke Kitchen & Market. B’Spoke offers incredible b’spoke bowls as well as epic pierogi bowls.

A few more Barrie restaurants to consider: 147 Restaurant, Crazy Fox Bistro, Donaleigh’s Irish Public House, and Michael & Marion’s. If you’re looking for fabulous breweries in Barrie opt for Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery & Tap Room and Barnstormers Brewing + Distilling Co. 

If you’re visiting in the summer then don’t forget to pop over to one of the many fabulous food trucks in Barrie!

Things to Do in Barrie Between Bites

Whether you’re looking for the perfect day trip from Toronto or a great weekend getaway there are a ton of things to do in Barrie at any time of year. There’s something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to epic festivals and even a thriving art scene.

• Summer in Barrie is all about the beaches! Be sure to pack your swimsuit, a towel and sunscreen! You’ll want to hit the beach in Barrie for some sun, fun and a refreshing swim in the waters of Kempenfelt Bay. You can also rent paddleboards, canoes or kayaks from Happy Paddling or enjoy the massive inflatable water park that hits the Bay every summer.
• If you’re looking to get active in Barrie the options are endless! There is a bunch of great hiking trails in and around the city. There are a ton of great parks to explore like Sunnidale Park Arboretum, Centennial Park and Heritage Park. In the winter you can ski and snowboard. On a rainy day head to Smart Moves Play Place if you have kids or to Jack’s Urban Jungle for all ages.
• Art lovers will find plenty of artsy attractions in Barrie! Visit the MacLaren Art Centre to see a range of Canadian art. Explore street art in downtown Barrie, where you’ll find everything from colourful murals, art and poetry pairings and incredible pieces like Barrie’s iconic Spirit Catcher sculpture.
• One of Ontario’s biggest and most popular festivals is held in Barrie, Kempenfest. You’ll find everything from craft and antique vendors to a midway and tons more. One of the best things to do in Barrie is attend a festival. And there are SO many to choose from! Other popular ones include Promenade Days, Craft Beer & BBQ Festival, Winterfest and the Jazz & Blues Festival.
• If you love learning about the places you visit then you should take a Heritage Walking Tour in Barrie. The city offers seven unique self-guided tours that are available to download on their website. These tours will take you to some of Barrie’s most interesting buildings and neighbourhoods as well as educate you on the area’s history and its people.

Make it a Weekend in Barrie

With an endless supply of great places to eat and fun things to do, you’ll need at least a full weekend to explore this exciting city! If you’re looking for Barrie hotels to book for your weekend in Barrie there are some really great options that range from charming Bed & Breakfasts to hotels with all the amenities. One popular Barrie hotel is the Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton. It’s located close to downtown, has bright and spacious rooms and a pool. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Barrie that has it all then consider Horseshoe Resort. This four-season resort has golf courses, skiing, a few different restaurants and is located a short 20 minute drive from downtown Barrie.

These aren’t the only fantastic hotels in Barrie, though! Take a look at this map of Barrie below and see what accommodation suits your trip best.

Ready to take a bite out of this thriving waterfront city? Whether you’re planning on a day trip to Barrie or looking to spend a weekend exploring the area, be sure to give one or more of these great local restaurants in Barrie a try! Be sure to pop into the Ontario Travel Information Centre, located just off the highway on Mapleview, for coupons for some Barrie’s restaurants and attractions.

While we do our best to keep the information on Eat Local Ontario up to date, we sometimes miss things. If you notice something that needs to be updated, please comment or send us an email at eatlocalontario[at]gmail.com and we’ll look into it as soon as we can. Thank you!