Fueling the Fun: A Guide to the Restaurants of Tobermory

After a long day of exploring all the natural beauty Tobermory has to offer, you may find yourself in need of an answer to the all important question: What’s for dinner? Whether you’re looking for a small pick-me-up or a meal to fuel your adventures, the restaurateurs of Tobermory offer something for every palate. And lucky for you, the Blue Bay Motel is located right in the heart of downtown, a short walk away from all the finest culinary features. In this edition of the Blue Bay Blogs, we’ll go on a journey through some of our favourite spots to eat in the Harbour and beyond. 

Just around the corner

There are some of the best restaurants in the downtown core of Tobermory, located just steps from your front door as a guest of the Blue Bay Motel. 

1. Crowsnest Pub & Restaurant

If good ol’ fashioned pub grub is what you’re after, look no further than the lofty Crowsnest pub, located on Bay St near the ramp of the harbour. Known for having juicy burgers, delicious pizzas, and hosting some of Tobermory’s finest live music, this place is great for a post-hike lunch or dinner. Try out their classic Pub Burger, or their fantastic Tobermory Deluxe pizza, and take in the scenic views of Downtown Tobermory from their ample patio. 

• Tobermory Brewing Company

If you’re a fan of craft beer and warm vibes, then this might be the place for you. Located just two doors down from the Blue Bay Motel, it is well worth the short walk even after a long day spent soaking up the sun. Enjoy a range of craft beer made in-house, and pair it with some of the delicious dishes on their menu. From bubbling French Onion Soup to flavourful Fish Sandwiches and creamy Fettuccine Alfredo, this place has plenty of delicious food to offer. They’re usually bustling with guests, so enjoy a drink at their bar while you wait, or call ahead. 

• Coconut Joe’s Harbour Bar & Grill 

If you’re searching for a tropical atmosphere to enjoy alongside the beautiful blue waters of Georgian Bay, then this restaurant just off the beaten path has exactly what you want. Located directly on Little Tub Harbour a short way up Bay St, they offer all your classic fare with an island twist, all served on a patio that seems to float atop the bay itself. Enjoy their uniquely crafted dishes, such as their Caribbean Jerk Chicken, or their “Peach on the Beach” Salad, and pair them with some of their handcrafted cocktails and mocktails. 

• The Fish and Chip Place 

This is quite possibly one of the most iconic restaurants in Tobermory. Though many places in the harbour serve fish and chips, none do it quite like the aptly named Fish and Chip place, located just up Bay St from the Blue Bay Motel. With a massive covered patio, they offer excellent views of the Downtown area. Be sure to try out their famous Tobermory Fish Tacos, or keep it classic with fish and chips, all made with fresh local whitefish. 

A hop, skip, and a jump

Not all of Tobermory’s finest food is located right in downtown. But worry not, none of these next few recommendations are more than a short drive or a slightly longer walk away. They’re also great stops if you’re on your way to the Blue Bay from further down the peninsula. 

1. Las Chulas 

If the good ol’ Canadian pub grub of downtown isn’t quite what you’re after, why not shake it up with some authentic Mexican food from Las Chulas, located a 10 minute walk away from the Blue Bay Motel up Highway 6. From Cochinita Pibil and Birria Tacos bursting with flavour (alongside Jackfruit for any vegetarians!) to Quesadillas filled with creamy cheddar for that perfect cheese pull, this place has lots of deliciousness to offer. Enjoy your meal at the colourful picnic tables in front of the restaurant, or take it to go. 

• The Hungry Hiker 

Just a little further up Highway 6, this place is great for a sandwich lunch on the go. From tender beef brisket, to easy on-the-go egg and cheese, they serve excellent sandwiches for both your pre- and post- hike refuels. It’s in their name, after all! They also boast plenty of outdoor seating to enjoy your meal, or you can take it with you to go on your day’s adventures!

• Tacomory 

Further up Highway 6 still is another Mexican restaurant, though this one is more so your North American tex-mex than your traditional tacos. Offering excellent Burritos and Bowls with your choice of meat, alongside Nachos and Tacos to suit a variety of tastes, they’re yet another excellent choice for a post-adventure meal, or just a regular dinner. They’re seating is limited, so get your meal to go and enjoy it in the Blue Bay’s back garden, freely accessible to guests of the Blue Bay Motel!

What’s for dessert?

As anyone who has travelled with children (or just the young at heart) will know, most any meal is shortly followed by this very query. You’ll be pleased to know that Tobermory offers a variety of excellent dessert options to round off your delicious meal. 

1. Peninsula Supply Ice Cream & Treats 

As everyone knows, there’s always room for a bit of ice cream after dinner. Offering over 36 different flavours of ice cream, alongside fudge, baked goods, and sweets galore, this unassuming little shop directly across from the Crow’s Nest is the perfect stop for a quick sweet after dinner. Open until 10 pm on weekends, this is the perfect stop for a treat after lunch or dinner!

2. Stella’s Gelato & Cafe

If you want something slightly more unique than traditional ice cream, why not stop here and discover the unique treat known as paletta, which are most similar to popsicles with unique flavours such as Dulce de Leche, Guava Cheesecake, or Nutella! On top of that, they also serve fresh gelato made in-house, as well as Italian coffee. Located just on the bend of Bay St, they’re only a short walk from the Blue Bay motel, a perfect opportunity to work up an appetite for dessert. 

3. The Sweet Shop 

This sweet stop may have already been on your Tobermory bucket list, but if you need another reason to pay them a visit, then the 30+ flavours of ice cream they offer make an excellent dessert after a lunch or dinner in town. Alternatively, if you want to save your sweets for later, take a look at their wide selection of handcrafted fudges, brittles, and chocolates, all made in house and absolutely delicious. 

Despite its small size, Tobermory offers something for every taste, from authentic Mexican to classic pub grub and easy and delicious sandwiches. Hopefully this list helps you solidify your dinner plans for your next stay at the Blue Bay Motel!

Ready to explore Tobermory one bite at a time?

Whether you’re craving fresh Georgian Bay whitefish, authentic Mexican flavours, handcrafted desserts, or a local craft beer after a day of adventure, you’ll find plenty of delicious options just minutes from Blue Bay Motel. Book your stay today and discover why great food is just another reason visitors fall in love with Tobermory.

Book your stay at Blue Bay Motel and experience the best of Tobermory—one delicious meal at a time.

Please note that restaurant hours, menus, and seasonal availability may change. We recommend contacting restaurants directly or checking their website or social media before visiting.*