From the bustling waterfront to the tranquil beauty of Kakabeka Falls, Thunder Bay offers a palate-pleasing array of dining options. Whether you’re craving hearty Canadian comfort food or exotic international flavors, this list of places to eat in Thunder Bay should give you a few options to satisfy your hunger. Continue reading to discover the culinary treasures and Thunder Bay restaurants that await in this northern gem.
A Blend of International Cuisines Among Places to Eat in Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscape, offering an impressive selection of international cuisines that bring the world to your plate.
Thai Kitchen – A Taste of Southeast Asia
Located on Cumberland St, Thai Kitchen is a gateway to Southeast Asia with its vibrant flavors and traditional dishes. Here, every meal is an adventure, inviting diners to indulge in the authenticity and warmth of Thai hospitality right in the heart of Thunder Bay.
Thai Kitchen Location
11 Cumberland St S, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 2T1, Canada
Kangas Sauna – A Unique Finnish Dining Experience
At Kangas Sauna, experience a slice of Finnish culture with traditional fare in a setting that pays homage to Thunder Bay’s Nordic heritage. This unique dining venue combines the relaxation of a sauna with the comfort of homemade meals, offering a truly unforgettable experience.
Kangas Sauna Location
379 Oliver Rd, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 2G1, Canada
Fine Dining Establishments
Elevate your dining experience with Thunder Bay’s finest restaurants, where the ambiance and gourmet cuisine are equally impressive.
Tomlin Restaurant – Gourmet Dishes with Local Flair
Tomlin Restaurant stands out for its gourmet dishes that showcase local ingredients with a creative twist. This establishment is a culinary gem in Thunder Bay, offering an exquisite menu that reflects the region’s seasonal best.
Tomlin Restaurant Location
202 1/2 Red River Rd, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 1A4, Canada
Caribou Restaurant and Wine Bar – Elegant Pairings and Ambiance
At Caribou Restaurant and Wine Bar, indulge in a menu featuring signature dishes like certified Angus tenderloin, cedar plank salmon, ahi tuna, and wood oven pizzas. The wine list has earned acclaim with the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, ensuring perfect pairings for a memorable eat in Canada. Running through the heart of Thunder Bay, this restaurant and wine bar is a testament to elegance and taste.
Caribou Restaurant and Wine Bar Location
727 Hewitson St, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 6B5, Canada
Brewpubs and Gastropubs
Thunder Bay’s brewpubs and gastropubs offer a perfect blend of craft beers and hearty meals. These establishments are known for their informal yet vibrant atmosphere, providing a space where friends can gather to enjoy the best of local brews paired with delicious pub fare. It’s an experience that invites patrons to linger over their drinks and savor the convivial surroundings.
Red Lion Smokehouse – Craft Beers and Smoked Meats
Red Lion Smokehouse stands as a prime barbecue restaurant in Thunder Bay’s waterfront district. Located on Cumberland St., this lion smokehouse pairs its signature smoked meats with an impressive selection of craft beers. The Red Lion is a destination for those who appreciate the robust flavors of expertly smoked cuisine and the nuanced notes of artisanal brews.
Red Lion Smokehouse Location
16 Cumberland St S, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 2T2, Canada
The Sovereign Room – A Cozy Retreat for Pub Lovers
Nestled at 220 Red River, the Sovereign Room is a cozy haven for pub enthusiasts. Its warm, intimate interior is the perfect backdrop for indulging in a night of casual dining and socializing. The menu boasts a variety of comfort foods, while the bar serves up local and imported beers. This spot is a true gem for those seeking a laid-back night out.
The Sovereign Room Location
220 Red River Rd, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 1A6, Canada
Bakeries and Cafés for Sweet Treats
Thunder Bay offers a delightful selection of bakeries and cafés where the sweet aromas of baked goods and fresh coffee fill the air. These spots are perfect for a morning pick-me-up, a leisurely afternoon treat, or a place to find handcrafted confections to take home.
Sweet North Bakery – Home of Artisan Breads and Sweets
At Sweet North Bakery, the focus is on artisan bread and sweets, with ingredients sourced from local producers like Thunder Oak Cheese Farm. Pairing their baked delights with beverages from Sleeping Giant Brewing, they create a symphony of local flavors that encapsulate the spirit of Thunder Bay’s culinary scene.
Sweet North Bakery Location
106 High St N, Thunder Bay, ON P7A 5R4, Canada
The Persian Man – Famous for Their Signature “Persian” Pastry
With several locations in Thunder Bay, The Persian Man is an institution famed for its signature “Persian” pastry. A sweet, cinnamon-infused treat topped with pink icing, it’s a culinary symbol of the city, beloved by locals and visitors alike.
The Persian Man Locations
899 Tungsten St, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 6H2, Canada
400 Balmoral St, Thunder Bay, ON P7C 5G8, Canada
Vegan and Vegetarian-friendly Venues
Restaurants in Thunder Bay are increasingly offering vegan and vegetarian-friendly options, ensuring that plant-based diners have a wealth of choices. From casual cafes to fine dining, there’s a venue to suit every taste and occasion.
The Growing Season Eatery – Fresh Juices and Vegan Meals
Located on Algoma St., The Growing Season Eatery is a bright spot among restaurants in Thunder Bay, serving up fresh juices and vegan meals. Their menu is a testament to the power of plant-based nutrition, offering a range of vibrant, healthful options that energize and satisfy.
The Growing Season Eatery Location
201 Algoma St S, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 3C1, Canada
Rebel Salad – Socially Conscious and Plant-Based Options
Rebel Salad is a vibrant salad bar located in Thunder Bay, Ontario, offering a customizable menu where customers can choose their base, toppings, proteins, and dressings. They emphasize fresh, locally sourced ingredients with plenty of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. The restaurant fosters a casual, friendly atmosphere and promotes sustainability through reusable containers. Dine-in and takeout options are available, with online ordering for easy pick-up.
Rebel Salad Location
320 Bay St, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 1S1, Canada
Thunder Bay’s Craft Beer Culture
Thunder Bay’s craft beer culture thrives on the shores of Lake Superior, with Northern Ontario’s pioneering spirit influencing the creation of unique brews. This culture is celebrated by locals and visitors alike, often paired with regional favorites like fried chicken.
Sleeping Giant Brewing Co – Local Brews with a View
Sleeping Giant Brewing Co. offers an array of craft brews that capture the essence of the region. With a tasting room that provides stunning views of the iconic Sleeping Giant, patrons can savor the flavors of Northern Ontario while enjoying the landscape that inspires the brewery’s creations.
Sleeping Giant Brewing Co Location
712 Macdonell St, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 4A6, Canada
Dawson Trail Craft Brewery – Handcrafted Beers with Character
Dawson Trail Craft Brewery is a testament to artisanal excellence, producing handcrafted beers that boast distinct character. Each brewery is a tribute to the brewery’s commitment to quality and the adventurous spirit of its patrons.
Dawson Trail Craft Brewery Location
1181 Golf Links Rd, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 7A3, Canada
Food Festivals and Farm Events
Thunder Bay’s culinary landscape is enriched by its food festivals and farm events. These gatherings bring together local producers, chefs, and food lovers, creating opportunities to sample the best of the region’s agricultural bounty and culinary talent.
Brew Ha! Craft Beer Festival – Celebrate the Art of Brewing
Thunder Bay’s Brew Ha! Craft Beer Festival is an annual celebration that brings together beer enthusiasts on the shores of Lake Superior. With a focus on Northern Ontario’s burgeoning craft beer scene, attendees can savor a variety of unique brews, enjoy live entertainment, and partake in beer education sessions. It’s a perfect event for those looking to explore the diversity and creativity of local and regional breweries.
Thunder Bay Country Market – Local Producers and Artisans
The Thunder Bay Country Market is a thriving hub in Northwestern Ontario, showcasing the best of the region’s local producers and artisans. Visitors can browse through a wide range of products, from farm-fresh vegetables and handmade crafts to gourmet treats and artisanal foods. It’s a great place to support the local economy and discover the richness of Thunder Bay’s agricultural and creative communities. And if you’re looking for more like this around the lake, check out our list of Farmers Markets on Lake Superior.
Thunder Bay Country Market Location
9QW3+RX Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
Hotels Offering Culinary Excellence
Hotels in Thunder Bay take pride in their food and drink offerings, ensuring that guests have access to delicious meals without having to step outside. From breakfast to dinner, hotel dining options are crafted to satisfy diverse palates and provide a memorable part of the stay.
Prince Arthur Waterfront Hotel & Suites – Historic Charm and Great Food
The Prince Arthur Waterfront Hotel & Suites combines historic charm with great food, offering guests a dining experience that reflects Thunder Bay’s heritage. The hotel’s restaurant serves up classic Canadian dishes with a modern twist, all while guests enjoy stunning views of the harbor and Sleeping Giant.
Prince Arthur Waterfront Hotel & Suites Location
17 Cumberland St N, 48 435185, -89, Thunder Bay, ON 218832, Canada
Delta Hotels by Marriott – Modern Amenities and Delicious Dining Options
Delta Hotels by Marriott in Thunder Bay is synonymous with modern amenities and delicious dining experiences. Guests can indulge in a diverse array of dishes at the hotel’s contemporary restaurant, where local ingredients meet international culinary techniques to create a feast for the senses.
Delta Hotels by Marriott Location
2240 Sleeping Giant Pkwy, Thunder Bay, ON P7A 0E7, Canada
Concluding Your Culinary Journey in Thunder Bay
As the culinary journey in Thunder Bay comes to a close, it leaves a lasting impression of bold flavors and warm hospitality. Thunder Bay’s food scene reflects the city’s rich cultural tapestry and the bounty of its natural surroundings, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts looking for places to eat in Thunder Bay.
To cap off the perfect dining experience in Thunder Bay, visitors should embrace the diverse restaurants in Thunder Bay and the vast array of flavors they offer. From the fresh catch on the shore of Lake Superior to the international cuisines that have found a home in this Northern Ontario city, there’s a taste for every palate.
And if you’re looking for more places to eat around Lake Superior, we’ve got you covered as well. We’ve got articles about many Lake Superior restaurants to help satisfy all your cravings.
