Locavore… following the 100-Mile Diet… farm to table… whichever terms you prefer, the concept of eating farm-fresh, local produce and meals isn’t new. Northeastern Ontario businesses are no strangers to these concepts either, so we’ve compiled a sampling of places to keep on your radar when looking for fresh, local eats as you tour through Northeastern Ontario this summer.
Dishes to Try: Manitoulin Island Rainbow Trout; Fruit Sorbet.
Complete with the cutest patio, regular live music performances, and waterfront views, the 40-seat White Owl Bistro leads the pack in farm-to-table cuisine in North Bay. On the menu, you’ll notice farm names next to the dishes, letting you know exactly where your food was grown. Once name you’re sure to see is Somewood Farms—the farm of owners and chefs René and Laura DuBois. Weekenders rejoice—the White Owl also offers a brunch menu.
Dates to Book: July 21, August 25, September 1
Book in early for a Bison-Bruschetta agri-tour, led by Temiskaming Shore’s Harbour View Centre. Passing through the beautiful landscape of the Temiskaming Area, your tour will include:
Sounds good? Purchase tickets here!
Dishes to Try: Max's Smoked Pork Chops; Fettucini w/ Creamed Mushrooms & Cranberries (V).
The Garden’s Gate promises great food with a great story! Situated in an antique farmhouse surrounded by organic herb and vegetables gardens, the location is as special as the menus. With food offerings that revolve around seasonal, local produce, you can expect a constantly changing menu alongside weekly specials. All dishes are prepared from scratch.
Dishes to Try: Organic tea & coffee; cinnamon buns w/ Maja's honey.
Eating local and vegetarian is easy at Maja’s in Mindemoya on Manitoulin Island. Eat your lunch surrounded by Maja’s beautiful gardens, with lunch featuring on-site made bakery goods, vegetable pizzas, focaccias, and hearty salads.
For a refreshing evening experience, book ahead on Wednesday and Saturday nights during the summer months for a multi-course meal accompanied by live music in the garden—Maja’s Gourmet Garden Gigs.
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Products to Try: Devil's Rock Creamy Blue Cheese; grass-fed cheese products.
With a history over 75 years young, and an expansive range of quality cheeses made in the North, Thornloe Cheese is a must-visit location on any farm-to-table tour in Northeastern Ontario. Stopping at their store location on Highway 11, you can choose from a range of cheeses including classic cheddars, subtle mozzarellas, squeaky curds, and exciting specialty cheeses such as the award-winning Devil’s Rock Creamy Blue.
Check out their full range of products here or order online!
Date to Book: August 12
Celebrate the beginning of harvest season with the community of Sturgeon Falls at Leisure Farms at this one-day-only event! Attendees are invited to sample all things local at one of the biggest local farms in the region. Food booths will be found alongside tasting stations and local beverages sampling spots.
Email admin@westnipissingchamber.ca for details, or visit their Facebook Page!
Products to Try: Locally made maple syrup products; Amish doughnuts.
Powassan’s most unique farm supplies store is also a great place to shop for local products. Pick up locally made fresh butter, cheeses, flour, pickles, honey and honey products, as well as maple syrup and maple syrup products. If you’re passing through on a Friday, make sure to stop in early for Amish doughnuts, as supplies won’t last long!
Visit their Facebook Page for the most up-to-date info available.
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Products to Try: The day's special.
Embodying the local food movement, Radical Gardens serves up something new and different each and every day in their Timmins eatery, on their food truck, and through their catering services. Food is made from scratch every day, and often includes produce such as oyster mushrooms and local garlic—straight from the owners’ farm. With pastry chefs on-site, visitors can anticipate a range of dessert creations every day, as well as fresh-made daily artisan bread.
Follow them on Instagram or Facebook for the dishes of the day!
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Wherever your foodie adventures take you, make sure to tag us on Instagram using @neontario or #neontario! For more information on how to eat local, check out Farmer’s Markets in Northeastern Ontario.
