Nestled along the western shore of Lake Simcoe, Barrie is a city that thrives on its connection to water, seasons, and community. For visitors, Barrie offers a lively mix of outdoor adventures—skiing and snowboarding in the surrounding hills, strolling its waterfront trails, or exploring downtown boutiques. But ask a local what makes the city memorable, and many will point you straight to its food.
Barrie’s culinary scene has grown in recent years, transforming into a destination that balances comfort classics with inventive cuisine. You’ll find everything here: family-run Italian kitchens, trendy cafés, bustling pubs, and lakeside restaurants that deliver not just meals but entire experiences.
This “restaurant map” is designed to guide you through Barrie’s best dining spots. Each listing comes with the essentials: address, average cost per person, signature dishes, operating hours, and how you can secure a table without relying on websites. Whether you’re in town for a quick visit or planning a longer stay, this guide will help you taste Barrie like a local.
Address: 268 Bradford Street, Barrie, ON L4N 3W6
Average price per person: CAD 25–45
Signature dishes: Pan-seared salmon with citrus glaze, farmhouse burger topped with local cheddar, and seasonal roasted vegetable medleys.
Opening hours: Daily 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Reservation method: Call directly during open hours; reservations are also possible through phone-based apps that allow table bookings.
The Farmhouse Restaurant is one of Barrie’s most beloved dining landmarks. Set inside a restored historic home, the atmosphere is cozy yet modern, offering sweeping views of Kempenfelt Bay from the upper level. Their menu focuses on farm-to-table dining, featuring ingredients sourced from Ontario farmers. Guests come here for both casual weekday meals and celebratory dinners, making it a versatile stop on your culinary journey.
2. Urban Dish Grill & Wine Bar
Address: 367 Yonge Street, Barrie, ON L4N 4C9
Average price per person: CAD 40–60
Signature dishes: Seared scallops with truffle risotto, lamb shank braised in red wine, and artisanal charcuterie boards.
Opening hours: Tuesday–Saturday 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm (closed Sunday & Monday)
Reservation method: Phone call is the most reliable; early evening calls secure the best availability.
For travelers seeking a more upscale dining experience, Urban Dish delivers with elegance. This intimate wine bar specializes in pairing creative dishes with a carefully curated wine list. The décor is sleek and modern, yet the service remains warm and personal. It’s the kind of place where you linger over dessert and conversation, enjoying Barrie’s culinary sophistication.
3. Grillicious Gourmet Tap & Grill
Address: 10 Dunlop Street East, Barrie, ON L4M 1A3
Average price per person: CAD 20–35
Signature dishes: Gourmet grilled sandwiches, smoked brisket, and their house-made grilled wings.
Opening hours: Daily 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Reservation method: Walk-ins are common, but calling ahead ensures seating, especially on weekends.
Located in the heart of downtown Barrie, Grillicious is casual dining at its best. The restaurant has built its reputation on flame-grilled meats and hearty comfort food. The energy inside is lively, making it a favorite for groups of friends or families with kids. If you’re in town exploring downtown shops or the waterfront, Grillicious is the perfect stop for a satisfying, no-fuss meal.
4. Il Buco Ristorante
Address: 31 Dunlop Street East, Barrie, ON L4M 1A2
Average price per person: CAD 30–50
Signature dishes: Veal saltimbocca, linguine alle vongole, and homemade tiramisu.
Opening hours: Monday–Saturday 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm (closed Sunday)
Reservation method: Call ahead; staff are very responsive and will confirm quickly.
Il Buco is widely regarded as one of Barrie’s top Italian restaurants. Overlooking Kempenfelt Bay, it combines romantic ambiance with traditional Italian flavors. The kitchen is run with passion, serving authentic recipes passed down for generations. It’s especially popular for anniversaries and special occasions, so securing a reservation by phone is recommended.
5. The North Restaurant
Address: 49 Mary Street, Barrie, ON L4N 1T2
Average price per person: CAD 50–80
Signature dishes: Chef’s tasting menu, lobster ravioli, and rack of lamb.
Opening hours: Wednesday–Saturday 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm (closed Sunday–Tuesday)
Reservation method: Reservations by phone are essential, particularly for the tasting menu.
Helmed by celebrity chef Marco Ormonde, The North Restaurant is Barrie’s answer to fine dining. It’s known for its seasonal tasting menus that showcase both local and international influences. Each dish is presented with artistry, and the staff are knowledgeable in pairing wines to enhance every flavor. Dining here is less about eating and more about experiencing cuisine as an art form.
6. Dunlop Street Diner
Address: 20 Dunlop Street East, Barrie, ON L4M 1A3
Average price per person: CAD 15–25
Signature dishes: Classic eggs benedict, chicken and waffles, and loaded breakfast poutine.
Opening hours: Daily 8:00 am – 3:00 pm
Reservation method: No reservations needed; expect some wait times during peak breakfast hours.
For a more laid-back experience, Dunlop Street Diner delivers comfort breakfast and brunch in a retro-inspired setting. Locals swear by its hearty portions and playful takes on Canadian classics. If you’re starting your day in Barrie with a lakefront walk, this diner is a perfect spot to fuel up before exploring.
7. Barnstormer Brewing & Distilling Co.
Address: 384 Yonge Street, Barrie, ON L4N 4C8
Average price per person: CAD 20–40
Signature dishes: Wood-fired pizzas, brewery burgers, and house-brewed craft beers.
Opening hours: Daily 11:30 am – 11:00 pm
Reservation method: Phone reservations accepted; bar seating is usually first-come, first-served.
This gastropub is more than just a place to eat—it’s a destination for craft beer enthusiasts. Barnstormer brews its own beer on-site, pairing it with a menu of hearty dishes. Their wood-fired pizza is especially popular, with creative toppings that highlight local flavors. The relaxed vibe makes it a go-to for both tourists and locals unwinding after a busy day.
8. Lazy Tulip Café
Address: 29 Maple Avenue, Barrie, ON L4N 1R7
Average price per person: CAD 10–20
Signature dishes: Avocado toast with local microgreens, vegan Buddha bowls, and fair-trade coffee.
Opening hours: Monday–Saturday 9:00 am – 3:00 pm (closed Sunday)
Reservation method: Walk-in friendly, but call if you’re visiting with a group.
A hub for healthy, conscious dining, Lazy Tulip Café specializes in vegetarian and vegan-friendly meals. The atmosphere is artsy and welcoming, often adorned with local artwork. It’s the kind of café where you can sip a latte while journaling, or grab a quick but nourishing lunch before continuing your Barrie adventures.
9. Michael & Marion’s
Address: 89 Bayfield Street, Barrie, ON L4M 3A7
Average price per person: CAD 40–60
Signature dishes: Roasted duck breast, seafood linguine, and decadent crème brûlée.
Opening hours: Tuesday–Saturday 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm (closed Sunday & Monday)
Reservation method: Phone ahead; reservations strongly suggested on Fridays and Saturdays.
Michael & Marion’s is a stylish, contemporary restaurant perfect for a sophisticated evening. Known for blending Canadian ingredients with European flair, the menu changes seasonally to keep things fresh. The service is attentive without being overbearing, making it a lovely place for both locals and visitors seeking something memorable.
10. Kenzington Burger Bar
Address: 40 Dunlop Street East, Barrie, ON L4M 1A3
Average price per person: CAD 15–25
Signature dishes: Build-your-own gourmet burgers, truffle fries, and loaded nachos.
Opening hours: Daily 11:00 am – 1:00 am
Reservation method: Walk-ins welcome, though calling ensures faster seating during busy evenings.
No Barrie food map would be complete without Kenzington Burger Bar. A downtown institution, this casual eatery is perfect for anyone craving creative burgers and a lively atmosphere. Its extended opening hours also make it a go-to spot for late-night bites after exploring Barrie’s nightlife.
Planning Your Food Journey in Barrie
Barrie’s dining culture is rooted in its community spirit and natural surroundings. From upscale experiences like The North Restaurant to cozy brunches at Lazy Tulip Café, the city offers a spectrum of flavors and settings.
Tips for dining in Barrie:
- Reservations: Many restaurants, especially fine dining spots, require reservations by phone. For casual spots, walk-ins are usually fine.
- Price ranges: Dining out in Barrie is generally more affordable than in larger cities like Toronto, but upscale restaurants can reach CAD 80+ per person with wine.
- Local specialties: Don’t miss Canadian comfort dishes like poutine, locally caught fish, and farm-fresh produce that changes with the seasons.
- Atmosphere: Expect a warm welcome everywhere you go. Barrie’s dining culture is less about formality and more about making guests feel like part of the community.
Exploring Barrie’s restaurant scene is like unfolding a story of its people, history, and geography. Each restaurant offers not just food but a reflection of Barrie itself—creative, community-driven, and deeply connected to its lakeside surroundings.
Whether you’re savoring veal saltimbocca at Il Buco, enjoying a craft beer at Barnstormer, or grabbing late-night burgers at Kenzington, every stop adds a new chapter to your experience. Use this restaurant map as your guide, and you’ll leave Barrie not just with photos of Lake Simcoe, but with memories of flavors that linger long after the trip.
