Where to eat and drink in Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay’s culinary influences come from First Nations’ cultures and the city’s diverse immigrant populations, including a large Finnish community.
In between meals, discover everything else that Thunder Bay has to offer. Sip and savour at the top restaurants in Thunder Bay.
Bakeries and breakfast
The Sweet North Bakery
This micro bakery packs a giant flavour punch.
The baked goods are made in-house with local ingredients. Sample soft pretzels, from classic salted to the inventive prosciutto and Gouda pretzel. Delight in the flaky scones and fudgy brownies made using traditional family recipes.
Locations:
- 106 High Street North, Thunder Bay
- 802 Fort William Road, Thunder Bay
- 797 Memorial Avenue, Unit #402, Thunder Bay (located inside Indigo bookstore)
Kangas Sauna
For breakfast in Thunder Bay, indulge in the famous Finnish pancakes at Kangas, and save room for a grilled cinnamon bun or a slice of homemade pie.
Location: 379 Oliver Road, Thunder Bay
Rooster’s Bistro
Located in the Waterfront District, this well-loved bistro and cafe serves an egg-focused morning menu. Choose from omelettes, breakfast burritos, sandwiches and more.
Location: 32 St. Paul Street, Thunder Bay
St Paul Roastery
St Paul is a full-scale roastery and cafe located in the heart of downtown. Roasting beans from Central and South America and Africa, the baristas brew excellent coffee and pull incredible espresso shots. Outdoor patio seating is available throughout the summer.
Location: 11 St. Paul Street, Thunder Bay
Eldar Cafe
Enjoy a unique blend of Middle Eastern influences, including traditional Iranian dishes, as well as waffles, crepes and omelettes. Try Majoon, a Persian energy shake made with banana, ice cream, date, sesame and walnuts.
Location: 215 Red River Road, #105, Thunder Bay
Sweet Nata
Sweet Nata’s signature Portuguese-style custard tarts, or pastel de nata, are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy the classic rendition or indulge in the Nutella-flavoured tart. Other delightful treats include cupcakes, palmiers and muffins.
Location: 270 Bay Street, Thunder Bay
The Persian Man
This bakery is known for an iconic sweet called the Persian, often described as a cross between a cinnamon bun and a doughnut, topped with pink icing. Persians are a must-try local specialty.
Follow The Persian Man on Facebook for additional information.
Locations:
Milk & Water Baking Co.
Savour small-batch cupcakes baked fresh daily using family recipes. Popular flavours include coconut, Nanaimo Bar and salted caramel. Check out the cookies, bars and cakes as well.
Location: 379 Main Street, Unit C1A, Thunder Bay
Vegetarian-friendly options
The Growing Season Juice Collective
Focused on fresh, healthy, made-from-scratch meals and drinks, this is a great place to enjoy a wrap, salad, sandwich or soup. Gluten-free and vegan options are available.
Location: 201 Algoma Street South, Thunder Bay
Goods & Co. Market
Goods & Co. Market is an urban market featuring over 25 local restaurants and artisans.
For vegetarian-friendly fare, stop by Growing for meat-free poutine. Or head to Bread & Butter for delicious plant-based salads and soups. For inspired cocktails, local beer or a glass of wine, visit Woodside Bar.
Location: 251 Red River Road, Suite #3, Thunder Bay
Rebel Salad
Choose from a wide variety of veggies, toppings, sides and dressings to make your lunch just the way you like it at this build-your-own salad bar.
Location: 320 Bay Street, Thunder Bay
Casual grill and smokehouse
The Sal
Originally called Salsbury Grill, The Sal is a long-standing classic diner. Located in the Westfort Village neighbourhood, it has been serving hearty meals like burgers, fish and chips and more since 1964.
Location: 118 Frederica Street West, Thunder Bay
Red Lion Smokehouse
Get your grill on at Red Lion Smokehouse, a barbecue restaurant in Thunder Bay’s waterfront district. Using fresh, seasonal and local ingredients, the menu combines classic British Pub favourites with a smokehouse twist. Savour slow-smoked meat paired with a craft brew.
Location: 16 Cumberland Street South, Thunder Bay
Italian-inspired restaurants
Nook
Nook is a small but mighty Italian-inspired restaurant in the heart of Thunder Bay. From house-made pastas to pizzas and antipasti plates, the menu will transport you to the Amalfi Coast. Pair your meal with a glass of wine from the well-curated wine list.
Location: 271 Bay Street, Thunder Bay
La Casa Nostra Ristorante
Known for its cozy, old-world vibe, La Casa Nostra’s traditional Calabrese-style menu offers diners a wide selection of pastas, pizzas and more. Don’t miss the deep-fried ravioli.
Location: 230 Bay Street, Thunder Bay
Tomlin Subdivision
Tomlin Subdivision is a casual downtown eatery attached to Lakehead Beer Company. Specializing in Detroit-style pizzas, this is the perfect place to enjoy a deep-dish pie along with a cold brew.
Location: 28 Cumberland Street South, Thunder Bay
Upscale establishments
Caribou Restaurant + Wine Bar
Caribou Restaurant and Wine Bar’s contemporary menu reflects regional influences and boasts an impressive wine list. Signature dishes include certified Angus tenderloin, cedar plank salmon, tuna tataki and wood-fired pizzas.
Location: 727 Hewitson Street, Thunder Bay
Bight Restaurant and Bar
This spacious modern eatery features globally inspired Canadian fare and artisan cocktails. Save room for dessert, such as the Mexican hot chocolate quinoa cake. In the warmer months, enjoy the outdoor patio overlooking Lake Superior.
Location: 2201 Sleeping Giant Parkway, Unit 100, Thunder Bay
Tomlin Restaurant
Enjoy carefully crafted shareable plates from an ever-changing menu of locally sourced dishes. Or put yourself in the chef’s hands with the family-style tasting menu option.
Location: 202 1/2 Red River Road, Thunder Bay
Prospector Steakhouse
This well-established steakhouse, located in a historic stone bank building, focuses on hearty portions and classic steakhouse fare. The prime rib is a fan favourite. After dinner, head next door to The Brew Pub for a nightcap and live music.
Location: 27 Cumberland Street South, Thunder Bay
International cuisine
Masala Grille
Tantalize your taste buds with the flavours and aromas of Indian and Thai food. Choose from an extensive menu featuring Goan curries, paneer dishes and Thai appetizers. Dine-in, take-out and delivery options available.
Location: 170 Algoma Street North, Thunder Bay
Nortenos Taqueria
When you’re craving Mexican food, Nortenos Taqueria delivers. From barbacoa and birria to fish tacos and tortas, experience authentic Mexican flavours and pair your meal with a zesty margarita.
Location: 698 Arthur Street West, Thunder Bay
Island Spice Jerk House
This Jamaican-Caribbean restaurant serves up bold island flavours, including jerk chicken, oxtail, curry, rotis and more. The vibe is welcoming and the home-cooked food is delicious.
Locations:
Thai Kitchen
From curries and fried rice to spring rolls and green mango salads, enjoy your favourite classic Thai dishes at this popular restaurant.
Location: 11 Cumberland Street South, Thunder Bay
Sukhanov Ukrainian Kitchen
A cozy restaurant serving classic Ukrainian and Eastern European dishes made from scratch. The menu features hearty, authentic comfort foods including borscht, perogies and cabbage rolls.
Location: 239 Algoma Street South, Thunder Bay
Late-night spots
Barkeep
Known for its intimate atmosphere and extraordinary drinks, this stylish downtown bar is perfect for a pre- or post-dinner drink or for catching up with friends.
Sip on your favourite classic cocktail or try an inventive concoction paired with a charcuterie plate. In the summer, enjoy the outdoor patio.
Location: 15C St. Paul Street, Thunder Bay
Madhouse
Specializing in whisky and draught beer, Madhouse has a selection of 14 taps and over 275 bottles of whisky. The beverage selection is complemented by a pub grub menu featuring everything from nachos to burgers.
Location: 295 Bay Street, Thunder Bay
The Tilted Turret Pinball Pub
You’re in for a fun evening at Tilted Turret. Order a pint or a cocktail and play the vintage pinball machines. Satisfy an appetite with Chicago-style pizza or a basket of wings from the pub-style menu.
Location: 135 Archibald Street North, Thunder Bay
From Finnish pancakes and Persian energy shakes to barbacoa and burgers, Thunder Bay’s culinary scene is full of delicious surprises.
Last updated: March 16, 2026