Chummy’s Grill At Noel’s Place: A Must Stop Near the Sault

Chummy’s Grill At Noel’s Place got its start back in 2008, first as a convenience store, then a small chip trailer was added, followed by a full service restaurant—all nestled on a large piece of property on Frontenac Street at the east end of Sault Ste. Marie on Batchewana First Nation territory. Robert Noel Syrette envisioned his business as a one-stop shop offering a variety of services. The location is convenient, too as it's visible from the Trans-Canada Highway 17 heading into Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.

I met with Ian Turpin, the general manager of Noel’s Place. He told me that, “the food offered out of the chip truck quickly became popular, and soon, a permanent structure was built to accommodate the demand with twenty-four seats for patrons. The success of the business continued, and in 2011, a sixty-seat dining room opened to welcome local and visiting customers who came for our popular menu offerings.” 

The property features beautiful life-sized wood carvings inside and out. “They were carved by world-renowned chainsaw carver, the late Pete Ryan (Carver Kings, Saw Dogs),” shared Ian. “They are on permanent display on the property and have become somewhat of a tourist attraction. Pete and Robert were good friends and we’re proud to have his art on display at Noel’s Place.”

Inside, the dining room is warm and inviting. The table tops and chairs were handmade by local Mennonites. They believe in supporting local businesses. 

What's on the Menu at Chummy’s Grill

Getting to the tastiest part, the food offerings and the varied menu at Chummy’s Grill, includes an all-day breakfast, Indian tacos and a fish fry every Thursday and Friday. These are the most popular menu choices, along with everything from burgers, wraps, soups and salads to wings, fresh-cut fries and poutine.  “We source our fish from Anderson Fisheries in Wawa, our hamburger from RJ’s Market and our maple syrup from Mountain Maple Products. And the breading for our fish is our own recipe,” Ian told me.

For a full review of the menu, it’s on the website by clicking here

“One of the reasons our customers keep coming back is not only for the great food but for our fantastic service. Our servers treat our customers like family and vice versa. Not long ago, one of our servers took some time off when she was ill. When she came back, word got out and many of our loyal patrons came in by the multiple tables full, to greet her and wish her well.”

I think that this example of customer service demonstrates how much an act of kindness goes a long way to help make a business successful. 

Chummy’s Grill welcomes tourists from all over the world. Whether they are passing through with their travel trailers or on tour by motorbike, cycling or by car, they are open seven days a week, except on statutory holidays. “Many of our customers will bring in their family or friends from out of town to one of our fish fries,” added Ian.

Noel’s Place continues to grow. I noticed there is a new timber frame building going up beside the main dining building. Ian told me, “We aren’t announcing what is happening there yet, but when the time comes, everyone will know.”

The convenience store is a hub of activity, with its drive-through window feature, open 365 days a year from 7 am to Midnight. The store offers tobacco products, lottery tickets, snacks and pop, as well as Indigenous giftware like orange t-shirts, sweet grass, lamps and blankets.

Compliments to Robert Noel Syrette for bringing his vision to life with this thriving, growing business. It employs forty people in the community and has quickly become a local favourite. 

Noel’s Place

262 Frontenac Street, Sault Ste. Marie
PH: (705) 575-3449
Web: www.noelsplace.com
Social: https://www.facebook.com/@NoelsandChummys
Hours of Operation: Chummy’s Grill is open 7 days per week, 9 am to 8 pm

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