Eight Must-Visit Classic Thunder Bay Restaurants That Locals Love

Thunder Bay’s food scene is as rugged and soulful as the landscape around it. If you want to eat like a local, start with these eight time-tested favourites. Each is a fixture in its own right, and together they form a delicious map of Thunder Bay’s most beloved bites.

Prospector Steakhouse

Established: 1985 
Neighbourhood: Waterfront District

When locals crave prime rib, they head to Prospector Steakhouse. Set in a historic Cumberland Street bank, this family-owned favourite has served hearty portions and warm hospitality for decades. The oven-roasted prime rib is the star, but the soft, buttery dinner buns are legendary. 

Insider Tip: It’s steps from Gateway Casino, so work up an appetite over blackjack, roulette, or poker before settling in for dinner.

Caribou Restaurant + Wine Bar

Established: 1999 
Neighbourhood: Intercity

Caribou Restaurant + Wine Bar brings polish and personality to Northern dining with porcini filets, 
wood-fired pizzas, and a Wine Spectator–approved list that impresses every vintage lover. It’s upscale yet unpretentious, serving globally inspired dishes grounded in Canadian ingredients.

Insider Tip: Order dessert (or share one) before heading to The Foundry for a live performance.

Madhouse

Established: 2001 
Neighbourhood: Bay & Algoma

Part pub, part neighbourhood hangout, Madhouse feels like a pair of broken-in jeans. With 275 whiskies and a strong craft-beer lineup, it’s a haven for casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike. The elevated pub fare pairs perfectly with local art by Michael O’Connor that covers the walls.

Insider Tip: Visit on Whiskey Wednesday when drams are fifteen percent off—and don’t skip the award-winning nachos.

Tomlin Restaurant

Established: 2014 
Neighbourhood: Waterfront District

Tomlin Restaurant’s ever-changing menu celebrates local producers and bold flavours—think house-made charcuterie, seasonal plates, and a chef’s tasting menu that flexes for dietary needs. The cozy room, thoughtful cocktails, and collaborative kitchen have made it a Thunder Bay favourite.

Insider Tip: Waiting for a table? Head around the corner to sister bar Barkeep for an aperitif or mocktail before dinner.

The Sal

Established: 1964 
Neighbourhood: Westfort

A Westfort landmark, The Sal (formerly Salsbury Grill) serves breakfast all day, messy burgers, and the city’s most famous Greek dressing, now sold by the jar. Recently refreshed but still true to its diner roots, it’s the beating heart of the south side.

Insider Tip: After lunch, explore Westfort’s heritage shops like J.B. Evans (since 1912) or Fresco’s Deli for a true local afternoon.

Bight Restaurant & Bar

Established: 2012 
Neighbourhood: Waterfront District

Set right on Lake Superior, Bight is the city’s signature waterfront dining room. Seasonal, locally sourced dishes and relaxed sophistication define the experience, and it's perfect for brunch on the patio or cocktails at sunset.

Insider Tip: Walk the marina after your meal. In summer, catch live music; in winter, skate the rink beneath the Sleeping Giant.

Giorg Cucina é Barra

Established: 1987 
Neighbourhood:  Fort William Business District

Full of character, Giorg Cucina é Barra offers a delightful Italian-inspired dining experience in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a variety of fresh, flavourful dishes crafted from quality ingredients, from classic pastas to creative seasonal specials, making it a perfect spot for lunch or dinner.

Insider Tip: Join Chef Joe’s cooking class and learn his favourites, from roasted chicken to Italy’s best and impress everyone at home!

Rooster’s Bistro

Established: 2002 
Neighbourhood: Waterfront District

Rooster’s Bistro keeps breakfast simple and satisfying with hearty plates and local flair. The walleye eggs benny is pure Thunder Bay, rich and savoury with a taste of the lake.

Insider Tip: Try a splash of locally made Heartbeat Hot Sauce, you’ll want to take a few bottles home with you.

PLAN YOUR VISIT TO THUNDER BAY

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