Canada’s waterfront restaurants offer more than just meals—they provide a feast for the senses. Imagine savoring a delicious meal while overlooking serene lakes, majestic rivers, or the expansive ocean. Each province boasts unique waterfront dining experiences that highlight the local cuisine and scenery. Here's a journey through Canada's best waterfront restaurants, organized by province.
British Columbia
Cactus Club Café – English Bay, Vancouver
Situated on the shores of English Bay, Cactus Club Café offers stunning sunset views over the Pacific Ocean. The menu features a mix of West Coast dishes and international flavors, with highlights such as the butternut squash ravioli and the grilled salmon.
The Boathouse Restaurant – Kitsilano, Vancouver
Located in Kitsilano Beach, The Boathouse Restaurant is renowned for its fresh seafood and panoramic views of the beach and North Shore mountains. Enjoy the signature cedar plank salmon while watching sailboats drift by.
Bridges Restaurant – Granville Island, Vancouver
Perched on Granville Island, Bridges offers a perfect blend of fresh seafood and waterfront charm. The patio provides views of the bustling False Creek and downtown Vancouver, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing meal.
Alberta
River Café – Prince's Island Park, Calgary
Nestled on Prince's Island Park in the heart of Calgary, River Café offers a tranquil escape with views of the Bow River. The restaurant emphasizes local ingredients, with dishes like elk tartare and Alberta beef tenderloin.
The Lake House – Lake Bonavista, Calgary
Located on the shores of Lake Bonavista, The Lake House offers a rustic yet elegant dining experience with a focus on regional cuisine. Enjoy dishes such as bison short ribs while overlooking the serene lake.
Ontario
Snug Harbour Seafood Bar & Grill – Port Credit, Mississauga
Snug Harbour offers a picturesque setting on the Credit River, with views of the marina and Lake Ontario. The menu features fresh seafood, including oysters, lobster, and their famous seafood chowder.
The Kee to Bala – Lake Muskoka, Bala
A historic spot on Lake Muskoka, The Kee to Bala is a prime destination for lakeside dining and entertainment. Enjoy casual fare and live music with stunning lake views as a backdrop.
Spencer's at the Waterfront – Burlington
Overlooking Burlington Bay, Spencer's offers a modern dining experience with a menu that celebrates local ingredients. The floor-to-ceiling windows provide spectacular views of the bay, especially during sunset.
Quebec
Le Jardin Nelson – Old Montreal, Montreal
Located in a historic building in Old Montreal, Le Jardin Nelson features a beautiful terrace overlooking the Old Port. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, from seafood to crepes, in a charming, lush garden setting.
Restaurant Le Champlain – Quebec City
Situated in the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Le Champlain offers elegant dining with views of the St. Lawrence River. The menu features gourmet cuisine, including foie gras and fresh seafood, in a luxurious setting.
Nova Scotia
The Bicycle Thief – Halifax
Set on the Halifax Waterfront, The Bicycle Thief combines Italian cuisine with Nova Scotian seafood. Enjoy dishes like lobster linguine while taking in views of the bustling harbor.
Five Fishermen – Halifax
Housed in a historic building near the Halifax Waterfront, Five Fishermen is famous for its seafood. The menu includes local favorites like Atlantic lobster and Digby scallops, best enjoyed with a view of the harbor.
Prince Edward Island
Blue Mussel Café – North Rustico
Nestled in the charming village of North Rustico, Blue Mussel Café offers fresh, local seafood with views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Signature dishes include mussels, oysters, and lobster rolls.
Inn at Bay Fortune – Bay Fortune
Owned by celebrity chef Michael Smith, this restaurant offers a farm-to-table dining experience with stunning views of Bay Fortune. The FireWorks Feast is a must-try, featuring dishes cooked over an open flame.
Newfoundland and Labrador
Mallard Cottage – Quidi Vidi Village, St. John's
Set in a historic cottage in the picturesque Quidi Vidi Village, Mallard Cottage serves traditional Newfoundland cuisine with a modern twist. The cozy interior and views of Quidi Vidi Lake add to the charm.
Manitoba
The Forks Market – Winnipeg
Located at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers, The Forks Market offers diverse dining options with river views. From sushi to burgers, there's something for everyone in this vibrant food hub.
Cibo Waterfront Café – Winnipeg
Situated along the Red River, Cibo Waterfront Café provides a casual dining experience with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The patio offers beautiful views of the river, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing meal.
Saskatchewan
The Berry Barn – Saskatoon
Located on the banks of the South Saskatchewan River, The Berry Barn offers homestyle meals and berry-themed desserts. The beautiful gardens and river views make it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Lakeside Chophouse – Waskesiu Lake
Overlooking Waskesiu Lake in Prince Albert National Park, Lakeside Chophouse offers a menu featuring local bison and lake trout. The rustic setting and stunning lake views enhance the dining experience.
New Brunswick
The Gables Restaurant – St. Andrews
Set in the historic town of St. Andrews, The Gables offers waterfront dining with views of Passamaquoddy Bay. The menu features fresh seafood, including scallops and lobster, in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Catch Urban Grill – St. John
Located in the Hilton Saint John, Catch Urban Grill offers modern cuisine with views of the St. John River. The restaurant is known for its seafood dishes, such as seared scallops and Atlantic salmon.
Yukon
Edgewater Dining Room – Whitehorse
Located in the Edgewater Hotel, this dining room offers views of the Yukon River and mountains. The menu features locally sourced ingredients, including Arctic char and wild game, providing a true taste of the Yukon.
Northwest Territories
Bullock's Bistro – Yellowknife
Famous for its fish and chips, Bullock's Bistro is situated on the shores of Great Slave Lake. The casual, rustic setting and fresh, local fish make it a must-visit spot in Yellowknife.
The Explorer Hotel – Yellowknife
With views of Frame Lake, The Explorer Hotel offers a fine dining experience with a focus on northern cuisine. The menu includes muskox, Arctic char, and other regional specialties.
Exploring Canada's waterfront restaurants is a journey through the country's culinary diversity and natural beauty. Each province offers unique dining experiences that combine delicious food with stunning views, making every meal a memorable adventure.
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