Located in the heart of Simcoe County, Orillia is a charming city with a rich history, scenic beauty, and a vibrant food scene. As a popular tourist destination, Orillia attracts visitors from all over the world, and its culinary offerings are a major draw for foodies and travelers alike. From classic Canadian comfort food to international cuisine, Orillia’s restaurants offer a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best places to eat in Orillia, highlighting the top restaurants, cafes, and eateries that make this city a culinary gem.
Classic Canadian Comfort Food
Orillia’s classic Canadian comfort food scene is all about hearty, homestyle cooking that warms the soul. From burgers and sandwiches to steaks and seafood, these restaurants serve up comforting fare that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
The Old Station Restaurant
Located in the heart of downtown Orillia, The Old Station Restaurant is a beloved institution that’s been serving up classic Canadian comfort food for over 20 years. This cozy restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored train station building, complete with exposed brick walls and wooden beams. Their menu features a range of comforting classics, including burgers, sandwiches, and steaks, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Burger and Fries: A classic combo that’s sure to satisfy your cravings
- Grilled Steak: A tender and juicy cut of meat, served with a side of garlic mashed potatoes
- Chicken Club Sandwich: A stacked sandwich featuring crispy chicken, bacon, and melted cheddar cheese
Olde Stone Brewing Co.
For a taste of Orillia’s craft beer scene, head to Olde Stone Brewing Co., a local brewery and restaurant that serves up delicious pub fare to pair with their handcrafted beers. Their menu features a range of classic Canadian comfort food, including burgers, sandwiches, and steaks, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Beer-Battered Fish and Chips: A crispy and delicious take on a classic pub favorite
- Grilled Cheeseburger: A juicy burger topped with melted cheddar cheese and served with a side of fries
- Chicken Wings: Tender and spicy wings that are perfect for snacking
International Cuisine
Orillia’s international cuisine scene is all about exploring the flavors and traditions of different cultures. From Asian fusion to Italian cuisine, these restaurants offer a diverse range of dining options that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Thai Basil
For a taste of Thailand, head to Thai Basil, a family-owned restaurant that serves up authentic and delicious Thai cuisine. Their menu features a range of traditional dishes, including curries, noodle dishes, and stir-fries, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Pad Thai: A classic Thai noodle dish made with stir-fried rice noodles, shrimp, and vegetables
- Green Curry: A spicy and creamy curry made with green chilies, coconut milk, and your choice of protein
- Spring Rolls: Crispy and delicious spring rolls filled with shrimp, vegetables, and herbs
La Bella Vita
For a taste of Italy, head to La Bella Vita, a family-owned restaurant that serves up authentic and delicious Italian cuisine. Their menu features a range of traditional dishes, including pasta, pizza, and risotto, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. (See Also: Where to Eat in Washington Heights? Best Kept Secrets)
Must-Try Dishes:
- Spaghetti Bolognese: A classic Italian pasta dish made with ground beef, tomato sauce, and spaghetti
- Margherita Pizza: A classic Italian pizza topped with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil
- Chicken Parmesan: A breaded and fried cutlet topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese
Breakfast and Brunch
Orillia’s breakfast and brunch scene is all about starting your day off right with a delicious meal. From eggs and pancakes to waffles and sandwiches, these restaurants serve up a range of tasty options to fuel your morning.
The Breakfast Club
Located in the heart of downtown Orillia, The Breakfast Club is a popular spot for breakfast and brunch. Their menu features a range of tasty options, including eggs, pancakes, waffles, and sandwiches, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Breakfast Burrito: A filling burrito made with scrambled eggs, chorizo, and cheese
- Waffles: A crispy and delicious waffle topped with fresh fruit and whipped cream
- Avocado Toast: Toasted bread topped with mashed avocado, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese
Cornerstone Cafe
For a taste of Orillia’s coffee culture, head to Cornerstone Cafe, a cozy spot that serves up delicious coffee and pastries. Their menu features a range of tasty options, including sandwiches, salads, and baked goods, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Coffee and Croissant: A classic combo that’s sure to start your day off right
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A crispy and delicious sandwich made with melted cheddar cheese and served with a side of tomato soup
- Quiche Lorraine: A French-inspired quiche made with eggs, cream, and lardons
Special Dietary Needs
Orillia’s restaurants are happy to accommodate special dietary needs, including gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options. Be sure to ask your server about menu options that cater to your dietary needs.
Gluten-Free Options:
Many of Orillia’s restaurants offer gluten-free options, including: (See Also: Where to Eat in the Dells? Top Local Favorites)
- The Old Station Restaurant: Offers a gluten-free menu that includes burgers, sandwiches, and salads
- Thai Basil: Offers a range of gluten-free noodle dishes and curries
- La Bella Vita: Offers a gluten-free pasta dish made with rice-based pasta
Vegan and Vegetarian Options:
Many of Orillia’s restaurants offer vegan and vegetarian options, including:
- The Breakfast Club: Offers a vegan breakfast burrito and a vegetarian waffle
- Cornerstone Cafe: Offers a vegan quiche and a vegetarian grilled cheese sandwich
- Thai Basil: Offers a range of vegan and vegetarian noodle dishes and curries
Recap
Orillia’s dining scene is all about exploring the city’s diverse culinary offerings. From classic Canadian comfort food to international cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this charming city. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a delicious lunch, or a satisfying dinner, Orillia’s restaurants have got you covered. Be sure to check out our top picks for the best places to eat in Orillia, and don’t forget to ask your server about special dietary needs and menu options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where to Eat in Orillia?
What are the best restaurants in Orillia?
The best restaurants in Orillia include The Old Station Restaurant, Olde Stone Brewing Co., Thai Basil, La Bella Vita, The Breakfast Club, and Cornerstone Cafe. These restaurants offer a range of delicious options, including classic Canadian comfort food, international cuisine, and breakfast and brunch fare.
What are the top-rated restaurants in Orillia?
The top-rated restaurants in Orillia include The Old Station Restaurant, Thai Basil, and La Bella Vita. These restaurants have received rave reviews from customers and critics alike, and are a must-try for anyone visiting Orillia.
What are the best places to eat in Orillia for breakfast and brunch?
The best places to eat in Orillia for breakfast and brunch include The Breakfast Club and Cornerstone Cafe. These restaurants offer a range of tasty options, including eggs, pancakes, waffles, and sandwiches.
What are the best places to eat in Orillia for dinner?
The best places to eat in Orillia for dinner include The Old Station Restaurant, Olde Stone Brewing Co., and La Bella Vita. These restaurants offer a range of delicious options, including classic Canadian comfort food, international cuisine, and seafood. (See Also: Where to Eat in Greenwich Village? Foodie Delights)
Can I find gluten-free options in Orillia?
Yes, many of Orillia’s restaurants offer gluten-free options, including The Old Station Restaurant, Thai Basil, and La Bella Vita. Be sure to ask your server about menu options that cater to your dietary needs.
Can I find vegan and vegetarian options in Orillia?
Yes, many of Orillia’s restaurants offer vegan and vegetarian options, including The Breakfast Club, Cornerstone Cafe, and Thai Basil. Be sure to ask your server about menu options that cater to your dietary needs.