Welcome to Thunder Bay, where the wild beauty of Lake Superior meets a culinary scene as bold and diverse as the landscapes that surround it. From waterfall hikes to waterfront picnics, Caribbean spice to Ukrainian comfort, this four-day Thunder Bay food itinerary will satisfy every craving for adventure and flavour.
Get ready to eat your way through Northern Ontario’s largest city one delicious stop at a time. Let’s dig in!
Day 1: A Warm Northern Welcome
Ease into your Thunder Bay adventure with a day that blends local flavour and natural wonder, from your first bite of comfort food to breathtaking Northern scenery.
Red River Dogs
Where: 238 Red River Rd, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
Once you arrive in Thunder Bay, you’ll probably want to get your bearings and there’s no better way to settle in than with a bite from Red River Dogs. This local gem puts a gourmet twist on a ballpark classic, serving up elevated hot dogs with unique flavour packed toppings.
If you’re wondering about the menu, try fun flavour combos like their Texas Dog, loaded with Texas-style chilli, melted cheese and a kick of jalapeño on a freshly toasted bun. Red River Dogs is a delicious stop to make before continuing your adventures in Thunder Bay!
Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park
Where: 4853 ON-11 #17, Kakabeka Falls, ON (View Map)
Next, stretch your legs and take in the natural beauty of the North. Nicknamed the Niagara of the North, make your way to Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park which invites you to marvel at its 40-metre cascade of rushing water framed by lush boreal forest. Stroll the boardwalk for all the best views and don’t forget to pause and breathe in that crisp Northern air!
The Early Refill
Where: Unit B, 4785 ON-11 #17, Kakabeka Falls, ON (View Map)
After visiting the falls, stop by The Early Refill, just down the road. Tucked inside the local Evergreen Pharmacy, the cafe is loved for its handcrafted drinks and welcoming charm. Warm up with a hot apple spiced cider and a fresh-baked treat like the cranberry and orange sugar cookie, or sip on a latte if you’re in need of a caffeine boost.
Before you head out, take a moment to browse the pharmacy, it’s not just stocked with travel essentials, but also a delightful selection of artisanal gifts and locally made goods that capture the spirit of Northern hospitality.
Island Spice Jerk House
Where: 71 Algoma St S #2, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
To wrap up the day with a satisfying meal, dial up the spice and make your way to Island Spice Jerk House, where Thunder Bay’s global flavours truly shines. This bright, welcoming spot brings the warmth of the islands to Northern Ontario, complete with vibrant décor and Jamaican sayings posted in the dining room wall that instantly immerse you in island culture.
We sunk our teeth into Caribbean classics like rich oxtail stew and jerk chicken served with rice and beans. Another standout? The handmade beef patties, flaky, golden and bursting with flavour. To top it all off, we paired our meal with sweet, fizzy Jamaican sodas for a delicious finish to a day well spent!
Day 2: From Falls to Flavour
Fuel up for a full day of exploring as you journey from cascading waterfalls to cozy eateries, discovering the hearty traditions and homestyle flavours that define Thunder Bay’s food scene.
Breakfast at The Sal
Where: 118 Frederica St W, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
Kick off your second morning in Thunder Bay at The Sal, a beloved local instituition that has been serving hearty breakfasts and warm welcomes for over 56 years. Originally opened in 1964 as Salsbury Grill, this Westfort Village staple has changed hands a few times, but its Greek roots and classic recipes remain at the heart of every meal.
Enjoy comfort classics like stacked pancakes, crispy bacon and freshly brewed coffee, or go big with their famous Breakfast Poutine, loaded with home fries, cheese, two eggs, bacon bits, chipotle and topped with their famous gravy. (Fun fact: they make about 165 pounds of their famous gravy every week!)
If you’re after something handheld, the Breaky Tacos are a must, filled with eggs, ham or bacon, fresh pico and chipotle and served with a side and steaming hot coffee for a warm start to your day.
Cedar Falls
Where: Fire # 328 Broome Road, O’Connor (View Map)
To break up the day in between your culinary adventures, just 30 minutes outside Thunder Bay, reconnect with nature at Cedar Falls. Spend your morning outdoors exploring the area, following a well-maintained trail that leads through quiet forest paths to a quaint lookout deck offering a clear view of the falls.
In the fall, the crunch of leaves underfoot and the burst of autumn colour make it an especially magical stop, and an ideal way to stretch your legs, breathe in the fresh air and recharge before your next bite.
Lunch at Sukhanov Ukrainian Kitchen
Where: 239 Algoma St S, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
After an action packed morning warm up with lunch at Sukhanov Ukrainian Kitchen. This cozy spot is where generations-old recipes come to life with comforting favourites like their beet based soup, borscht, traditional cabbage rolls, pierogies and stuffed peppers filled with beef, quinoa and bacon. Each dish is hearty, homemade and full of flavour, a delicious taste of Ukrainian tradition.
Before you know it, you’ll be happily sharing a “smachnoho!” (Ukrainian for enjoy your meal!) with your tablemates. Just don’t leave without trying their signature honey cake for a sweet end to your meal.
The Cheese Encounter
Where: 198 Algoma St S, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
Cheese lovers, rejoice! This next stop is for you! Get to know Thunder Bay’s local makers with a stop at The Cheese Encounter, your go-to for all things creamy, savoury and delicious. Browse their curated selection of local and imported cheeses, charcuterie and specialty grocery items, with shelves proudly stocked with Thunder Bay favourites like Heartbeat Hot Sauce, Sleeping Giant Brewing Co. and Bay Meats, plus a tempting array of Canadian and global finds.
Whether you’re picking up a few bites for later (we suggest a bag of the Cajun cheese curds from Thunder Oak Cheese Farm) or a tasty souvenir to take home, The Cheese Encounter is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates good food and local flavour.
Lakehead Beer Co & Tomlin Subdivision
Where: 206 Park Ave, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
Wind down your afternoon with a casual visit to Lakehead Beer Co, where their focus is on brewing and serving the freshest flavours possible! While you’re there you’ll notice the beers are poured straight from the tank. We opted to try their Cherry Wave, a smooth seasonal brew that’s an easy sip, even for those who don’t usually reach for beer. The space hums with energy, especially on trivia nights, making it a favourite local stop.
Sharing the same space with the brewery is Tomlin Subdivision, a delicious spot to grab a bite to go with your pint. Order up a few shareables for a lighter bite like their crispy fried pickles served with ranch dip or potato croquettes piled high with Parmesan and chives, served with a side of scorch sauce.
For something heartier you can’t go wrong with ordering one of their famous Detroit-style pizzas, like the crowd-favourite Ezzo, topped with mozzarella, Ezzo pepperoni and rich tomato sauce.
Together, Lakehead Beer Co. and Tomlin Subdivision make the ideal pre-dinner stop, where craft beer meets culinary creativity in Thunder Bay’s most flavourful way!
Afro Gourmet Cooking Class
Wrap up your second day in Thunder Bay with an AfroGourmets cooking class, a vibrant, hands-on experience that celebrates spice, fresh ingredients and community. Feast On® certified, this class highlights local Ontario ingredients while bringing authentic African flavours to the table. Guided by the warmth and enthusiasm of Chef Awa, you’ll cook and learn with plenty of laughter along the way, making it a truly delicious and memorable way to close out the day.
You’ll work for your meal in the best way possible by chopping, mixing and tasting as you go. Together with a small group, we prepared a colourful spread of dips and sauces, from spiced beet and cheese spread to garlicky hummus, that we then paired with shawarma-style chicken wraps we learned to cook from scratch. For dessert, we tried our hand at baking madeleines and layering parfaits, adding a playful, creative finish to the evening.
After all that cooking the class ended around a shared communal table, where we sat down to enjoy the feast we’d made together, swap stories and celebrate a day of connection and culinary discovery in Thunder Bay’s global food scene!
Day 3: Local Love + Sunset Bites
Spend the day living like a local, sampling fresh-baked favourites, browsing creative community markets and ending your evening with West African flavours and lakefront views.
Swell Bakeshop & St. Paul Roastery
Where: 15a St Paul St, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map) and 11 St Paul St, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
Start your morning like a true local and fuel up with freshly baked pastries from Swell Bakery and a specialty coffee from St. Paul Roastery, a dream duo for breakfast in downtown Thunder Bay.
A mandatory morning stop for many locals, Swell Bakery is known for its irresistible, small-batch bakes made fresh daily. Each morning brings a new freshly baked loaf of bread to choose from, alongside a tempting lineup of pastries.
We opted to try the savoury egg and bacon danish, but for something to satisfy your sweet tooth, during our visit, we hit peak pumpkin spice season and knew we couldn’t leave without trying the pumpkin pie danish and a cream-topped croissant. The bakery is no stranger to selling out, with lines often forming out the door well before opening so if you can we’d encourage you to plan ahead and get there early!
Once you’ve picked up your treats, step next door to St. Paul Roastery. The two spots are connected and the café is a cozy local roastery where beans are roasted in-house for the freshest flavour. Pair your pastry with a silky latte or a expertly pulled espresso for the ultimate Thunder Bay breakfast.
Goods & Co Market
Where: 251 Red River Rd, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
Continue your easy morning in Thunder Bay with a short walk to Goods & Co Market, the vibrant heartbeat of the city’s downtown. This lively community hub brings together local artisans, bakers and makers under one roof, offering visitors the chance to shop for edible souvenirs, discover handmade gifts, or simply soak up the buzz of Thunder Bay’s creative energy.
Wander through the market’s art gallery or browse among the many local vendors and craftspeople, discovering everything from handmade art to freshly grown and produced foods. Be sure to stop by the Superior Seasons Market Stall, a Feast On® certified vendor championing local farmers and producers from Northern Ontario. With plenty of great spots for food and drinks, there’s something here for every craving.
While we were there we couldn’t resist a stop at Uncommon Baked Goods, known for their epic treats. Our picks? A spiced apple choux pastry topped with white chocolate cream and a delicious carrot cake cup for a sweet mid morning pick-me-up.
At Goods & Co, you’ll find a true taste and sense of Thunder Bay, where community, creativity and love for local flavour all come together!
Best Bite Shawarma
Where: 332 High St N, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
For lunch, grab takeout from Best Bite Shawarma, a laid-back stop serving up Iranian-style comfort food packed with flavour. We opted for the chicken shawarma, topped with creamy, garlicky labneh, alongside a fresh fattoush salad sprinkled with crisp, golden pieces of fried pita for that extra crunch.
Since Best Bite doesn’t have indoor seating just yet, we took our feast to Hillcrest Park for a picnic overlooking Lake Superior and the iconic Sleeping Giant. From your perch above the city, soak in the sweeping views while enjoying your meal, finishing on a sweet note with a piece of freshly made baklava.
Belluz Farms
Where: 752 Candy Mountain Dr, Slate River Valley, ON (View Map)
For some afternoon adventure that’s pure fall magic, head to Belluz Farms, where you can experience farm-fresh Ontario produce straight from the source. Beginning on weekends in October the farm transforms from lush summer fields into an autumnal wonderland, bursting with pumpkins at every turn.
Wander through the farm shop, meet the farmers and soak up the region’s agricultural heart before heading over to the farm playland. Here, you can explore a whimsical “straw henge,” cozy photo-ready vignettes, and plenty of pumpkin-themed games like bowling, checkers and tic-tac-toe, all surrounded by vibrant fall colours with Candy Mountain in the distance that make for great family photos or Instagram-worthy shots.
Before you leave, stop by to visit the friendly farm animals, from goats and sheep to curious chickens and pick out a pumpkin to take home as a momento of your day. With its mix fall fun and fresh country air, Belluz Farms is a wholesome, family-friendly outing that captures the spirit of harvest season in Thunder Bay.
Pre-Dinner Drinks at Woodside Bar (Goods & Co)
Where: 251 Red River Rd, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
Wind down your third day in Thunder Bay with a visit back to Goods & Co for a pre-dinner drink at Woodside Bar, a chic yet relaxed spot known for its creative cocktails and locally sourced ingredients. As the sun sets, their Sun Down Menu serves up happy hour favourites with plenty of options to help ease into the evening.
We opted to try a few seasonal classics from the bar’s regular lineup, including the Northern Pear, a gin-based cocktail with a hint of maple, garnished with fresh pear slices and a cinnamon stick for a cozy, fall-forward flavour. For something lighter, the bar also crafts a mean mocktail, like the Blue-Beary Lemonade, made with sparkling lemon, butterfly pea tea and a touch of honey for natural sweetness.
With its stylish atmosphere and community buzz, Woodside Bar is the ultimate place to toast to another memorable day in Thunder Bay.
Dinner from The African Lounge at Marina Park
Where: 146 Centennial Square, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
Your next stop for dinner is a true hidden gem and a local favourite that’s worth planning ahead for.
The African Lounge is a newer addition to the city and has quickly earned a loyal following in Thunder Bay. As a Feast On® certified restaurant, it proudly celebrates Ontario-grown ingredients while bringing the bold, authentic flavours of West Africa to the table. Tucked inside Centennial Family Foods, this spot is part grocery and part takeout counter, and entirely worth seeking out.
Everything here is made fresh and available as a take-out option only, so it’s best to pre-order your meal before arriving to the store. To pick up your meal just make your way to the back of the store, where you’ll find shelves lined with Ghanaian pantry staples and a small kitchen serving up authentic West African flavour.
For dinner, we decided to try a few favourites: juicy shrimp kebabs (suya sticks), Ghanaian jollof rice with tender chicken and a flaky, golden Ghana meat pie filled with savoury beef. Each dish was deeply satisfying and comforting!
After picking up our dinner, we made our way to Marina Park to enjoy it picnic-style at sunset.
Day 4: Sweet Endings + Scenic Views
Savour your final day in Thunder Bay with a delicious mix of sweet treats, scenic drives and flavour-packed local dining that captures the spirit of Northern Ontario one last time.
ELDAR Cafe
Where: 215 Red River Rd #105, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
Your final morning in Thunder Bay begins on a delicious note at ELDAR Café. As another one of Thunder Bay’s newer additions to the city’s food scene, ELDAR Café serves beautifully prepared Persian and Mediterranean-inspired breakfasts that are as vibrant as they are satisfying.
We opted to try the Tomato Omelette made with eggs cooked with roasted tomatoes and served with a spread of honey, cheese, walnuts, sliced cucumber and olive oil along with warm pieces of Persian bread to dip. To sip, we paired our breakfast with a rich cup of Turkish coffee for a warm and flavourful start to the day.
Persian Man
Where: 899 Tungsten St, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
No trip to Thunder Bay is complete without a stop at Persian Man for a taste of the city’s signature treat, the Persian. This sweet, cinnamon-spiced pastry topped with pink icing is a true local legend, and delicious pairing with coffee. The pink frosting is their trademark, but don’t sleep on the other colourful variations you’ll find in the display case, each one just as tempting as the last.
Beyond the famous Persians, the bakery also offers a range of delicious sweets, including their beloved Sally-Ann cakes, a small, tender cake filled with your choice of sweet flavoured fillings. After being persuaded by a local Thunder Bay couple we met during our AfroGourmets cooking class, we couldn’t resist trying the Vienna Sally-Ann, filled with vanilla cream and topped with a glossy chocolate glaze, a bite-sized indulgence sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Whether you’re grabbing a Persian or a Sally-Ann (or both!), Persian Man is a sweet stop for a mid-morning pick-me-up!
Ouimet Canyon
Where: R.R. #1. Pass Lake, ON (View Map)
Next take a scenic drive to Ouimet Canyon, one of Northern Ontario’s most breathtaking geological wonders. The journey may be a little longer, but it’s absolutely worth it once you arrive!
The well-marked, accessible trail winds through peaceful forest before opening up to a beautiful lookout deck with sweeping views of the canyon below. Spanning more than 100 metres deep and 150 metres wide, this ancient gorge showcases dramatic rock formations carved by glaciers over a billion years ago. It’s a humbling and awe-inspiring stop to take in the raw beauty of the Northern Ontario.
Lunch at The Industry Social House
Where: 782 Macdonell St, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
After working up an appetite from the morning’s adventures and scenic drive, head back to town for lunch at The Industry Social House where modern pub fare, craft beer and a show stopping cocktail menu makes for an afternoon pit stop.
Savour the afternoon as the day winds down, and be sure to try the cocktails, they’re a true highlight here. The Hard Start, made with caramel liqueur and coffee is then smoked right in front of you at the bar.
For lunch we dove into a few popular favourites, starting with the Hot Honey Dill Chicken Sandwich, a crowd-pleaser that strikes a balance between sweet heat and satisfying crunch. The Deconstructed Caesar, served with grilled chicken and topped with Parmigiano Reggiano, crunchy croutons and bacon, reimagined all the classic Caesar flavours with a clever twist. For something heartier, the Oxtail Bolognese Lasagna is a rich and comforting dish to help fuel the rest of your day.
Prime Gelato
Where: 200 Red River Rd, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
Next treat yourself to dessert at Prime Gelato, where authentic Italian-style gelato is churned fresh daily using premium ingredients, no frills, just pure creamy goodness. This spot is the real deal, serving gelato straight from stainless steel tins that keep every scoop at its silky best.
During our visit, the menu featured a refreshing dairy-free Piña Colada, a delicious option for those avoiding dairy and a decadent Double Chocolate Gelato loaded with rich chocolate chunks. They also whip up floats and fun toppings to add to your scoop for a playful twist on a classic treat!
The Commissary
Where: 618 Christie St, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
Before dinner, we made our way to The Commissary Deli & Smoked Meats, a family-run shop that’s been a staple in Thunder Bay for three generations. Known for its friendly atmosphere and incredible selection of house-smoked meats, this spot is a must for anyone who appreciates quality craftsmanship and old-world flavour.
The deli smokes all their meats in-house, and the best time to visit is on Wednesdays and Fridays, when the deli fires up the smokers bright and early. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse (and a whiff!) of the process. It’s also a great time to pick up fresh kielbasa and sausages, still warm from the smoker.
We couldn’t resist grabbing a small charcuterie tray to snack on before dinner, featuring an assortment of cheeses paired with their hot cheese-stuffed sausage, garlic sausage, and pepperettes. Every bite was packed with flavour and made for a delicious pre-dinner snack.
Dinner at Red Lion Smokehouse
Where: 16 Cumberland St S, Thunder Bay, ON (View Map)
End your final day in Thunder Bay with a delicious meal at Red Lion Smokehouse, a Feast On® certified restaurant that celebrates Northern Ontario’s flavours in every bite. The restaurant proudly supports Thunder Bay producers, pairing elevated pub fare with craft beer and cocktails in a warm, laid-back setting that makes for a memorable finale to your culinary adventure.
We started with burgers, sinking our teeth into The Smokeshow, winner of the 2024 Novemburger of the Year. This epic creation features twin smashed patties layered with smoked cheddar, American cheese, maple bacon, white onion, lettuce and tomato, served under a sage-smoked cloche. For sides we sampled the Popcorn Chicken, crispy buttermilk-fried bites tossed in Heartbeat Hot Sauce with chili mayo and the Scotch Egg, a standout nod to the Chef John’s London roots. Subtle British influences like this appear throughout the menu, blending flavours effortlessly with the restaurant’s signature smoky Northern flair.
The drinks list holds its own, featuring plenty of local brews. We paired our meal with Lakehead Beer Co.’s Cherry Wave and Altbier, both easy-drinking companions to the rich, smoky dishes.
Each November, Red Lion Smokehouse joins Thunder Bay’s annual Novemburger charity event, where local restaurants compete for the title of the city’s best burger. After tasting their award-winning Smokeshow, we can confidently say it’s a well-deserved win. Keep an eye out for this year’s contenders, you might just discover your new favourite reason to return to Thunder Bay.
Nomad (Thunder Bay Airport)
If you’re flying out, make one last stop at Nomad located inside the Thunder Bay Airport for one final bite of Northern hospitality before heading home.
Operated by Pinetree Catering, Nomad takes airport dining to new heights with fresh, chef-made grab-and-go meals that elevate the travel experience far beyond your standard terminal fare. It’s a cozy, uniquely local kiosk where you can relax with a coffee brewed from Thunder Bay favourites like St. Paul Roastery or Rose N Krantz Roastery. Since we were catching an early flight, we opted for a hearty summer sausage and egg wrap, warmed with melted gouda for the ideal pre-flight breakfast.
Before boarding, take a moment to browse Nomad’s shelves, stocked with locally made Thunder Bay goods, from craft beer and coffee beans to cheese curds, preserves and even locally crafted artwork. It’s a thoughtfully curated hub that celebrates the region’s makers and flavours and an easy must-visit for any traveller flying out of Thunder Bay.
Taste the North, Feast On® Style
Four days, countless flavours and endless memories, Thunder Bay is where culinary discovery meets natural wonder. From lakeside markets to farm-fresh fields and kitchens serving up global flavour, every meal tells a story rooted in place and community!
So, pack your appetite and get ready to eat your way through Thunder Bay, one delicious day at a time!
