10 Favorite Foods in Thunder Bay, Ontario – Feast Like a Local

Thunder Bay, Ontario, sits on the shores of Lake Superior. This northern Ontario city blends rich history, diverse cultures, and a thriving local food scene. From Finnish immigrants to Indigenous traditions, the region’s cuisine reflects its heritage and regional economy. This is the second article in a series covering Great Lakes Favorite Foods.

The city of Thunder Bay offers a mix of local restaurants, fast food, and fine dining. Many Thunder Bay restaurants focus on local products, including wild rice, freshwater foods, and ingredients from local farmers’ markets. Urban farms and an evolving area food strategy continue to shape the region’s food system.

Feast Like A Local

This guide explores 10 favorite foods in Thunder Bay that define the region’s culinary identity. Each dish showcases local flavors, famous foods, and beloved spots, from cozy coffee shops to well-known great restaurants. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or a lifelong resident, these dishes highlight the best of northwestern Ontario.

1. Persian Rolls – A Thunder Bay Classic

Persian rolls are a Thunder Bay favorite. These sweet, cinnamon-filled pastries have a soft texture and a signature pink icing topping. Persian Man, a local bakery, is the most famous spot to get them.

The origin of the Persian roll remains unclear, but locals have embraced it for decades. The pastry combines a doughy center with a brown sugar and cinnamon filling. The icing adds a rich, sweet flavor that makes it stand out.

Many local bakeries sell Persians, but Persian Man is the most well-known. The shop has served these pastries for a long time, drawing both residents and tourists. Large portions and consistent quality keep customers coming back.

Visitors can enjoy a Persian roll with coffee from a local coffee shop. Some take them home as souvenirs or grab a box before flying out of Billy Bishop Airport. These pastries represent Thunder Bay’s unique food culture.

2. Finnish Pancakes at Kangas Sauna

Thunder Bay has strong Finnish immigrant roots. Kangas Sauna, a Finnish restaurant, serves authentic Finnish pancakes. These thin, crepe-like pancakes are soft, buttery, and slightly sweet.

Unlike traditional pancakes, Finnish pancakes have crisp edges and a delicate texture. Many enjoy them with powdered sugar, brown sugar, sour cream, or fresh berries.

Kangas Sauna offers a home-style food experience. Guests can relax in the sauna before enjoying a meal. The friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere make it a local favorite.

Locals often visit with small groups or family. The restaurant’s fast service and good food make it a great breakfast or brunch spot. These popular dishes highlight Thunder Bay’s long history of Finnish immigrants.

3. Wild Rice and Freshwater Foods

Wild rice is a staple in northwestern Ontario. Indigenous communities have harvested it for centuries. This nutrient-rich grain grows in the region’s lakes and rivers. It remains a key part of the food system and Indigenous cuisine.

Many Thunder Bay restaurants serve wild rice in soups, salads, and side dishes. Caribou Restaurant and Tomlin Restaurant offer creative takes on this local product. The grain pairs well with fish, another freshwater food common in northern Ontario.

The Robinson Superior Treaty recognizes the rights of Indigenous peoples to harvest wild rice. Many view it as more than just food—it represents culture, sustainability, and a connection to the original custodians of this land.

Thunder Bay’s area food strategy supports local producers who cultivate wild rice. By choosing dishes with this grain, diners help strengthen the local economy and preserve an important tradition.

4. Best Burger in Thunder Bay – The Red Lion Smokehouse Experience

Red Lion Smokehouse is one of Thunder Bay’s best restaurants. This waterfront district spot is known for its best burgers, smoked meats, and house-made sauces. It blends casual dining with high-quality ingredients and great service.

The best burger at Red Lion features certified Angus tenderloin topped with fresh cheese, crispy bacon, and house-made condiments. The restaurant also offers a unique take with its pork belly burger, a favorite among locals.

Beyond burgers, Red Lion serves a variety of smoked meats, tacos, and craft beverages. Their selection of craft brew includes local options from Sleeping Giant Brewing Company. Guests can enjoy their meal on the outdoor patio, making it a perfect backdrop for summer dining.

The restaurant’s friendly staff, fast service, and commitment to local food make it a Thunder Bay favorite. Whether stopping in for a good burger or a drink, visitors appreciate the high-quality meals and relaxed atmosphere.

5. Fish Tacos and Taco Bowls at Tomlin Restaurant

Tomlin Restaurant is a local favorite in Thunder Bay’s waterfront district. Known for its creative menu, the restaurant specializes in fish tacos and taco bowls. These dishes highlight local products and fresh ingredients from local producers.

The fish tacos feature lightly battered whitefish, sourced from the shores of Lake Superior. They come with crisp slaw, tangy lime crema, and a touch of hot sauce for extra flavor. The taco bowls offer a unique take on a classic, combining seasoned meats, rice, beans, and fresh toppings.

Tomlin’s menu changes with the growing season, supporting the local economy by working with local farmers’ markets and urban farms. The restaurant’s extensive menu includes other popular dishes, but the fish tacos and taco bowls stand out as must-try items.

Guests enjoy Tomlin’s outdoor patio in the summer, making it a perfect backdrop for a relaxing meal. Whether visiting for the first time or returning for another bite, this spot offers high-quality food in a stylish setting.

6. Thai Kitchen’s Famous Spring Rolls

Thai Kitchen is one of the great restaurants in Thunder Bay, offering authentic Thai cuisine with fast service and bold flavors. The restaurant is best known for its crispy spring rolls, a favorite appetizer among locals.

Each spring roll is hand-rolled, filled with seasoned vegetables and protein, and fried until golden brown. Served with a tangy dipping sauce, these rolls deliver a perfect balance of crunch and flavor. The friendly staff ensures a welcoming dining experience.

Thai Kitchen’s flavorful meals go beyond just spring rolls. Their extensive menu includes noodle dishes, curries, and stir-fries made with local food and fresh herbs. The restaurant’s commitment to good food and fast service makes it a Thunder Bay favorite for both takeout and dine-in meals.

Located in the heart of the city, Thai Kitchen attracts both locals and visitors. It’s an excellent option for those looking to explore international flavors while enjoying high-quality ingredients and a casual atmosphere.

7. Cheese Curds and Poutine at Local Chip Stands

Poutine is a Thunder Bay favorite, and local chip stands serve some of the best versions. This classic Canadian dish features crispy fries, gooey cheese curds, and rich gravy. The use of fresh, squeaky cheese curds from local producers sets Thunder Bay’s poutine apart.

Chip stands are a staple of the fast food scene in northwestern Ontario. These small roadside eateries serve large portions and focus on home-style food. Some stands add a unique take by offering toppings like pulled pork, mushrooms, or spicy hot sauce.

Many chip stands operate seasonally, aligning with Thunder Bay’s growing season. They provide an affordable and satisfying meal, often attracting both locals and tourists. Visitors looking for the best ways to experience their favorite foods in Thunder Bay should try a fresh order of poutine.

8. Ice Cream and Sweet Treats at Prince Arthur’s Landing

Prince Arthur’s Landing is a scenic waterfront area in Thunder Bay’s downtown core. It’s home to walking trails, parks, and several local bakeries and ice cream shops. This area is a go-to spot for a sweet treat on a warm day.

Many ice cream shops here serve flavors inspired by medicinal plants and the boreal forests. Popular options include wild blueberry, maple walnut, and honey lavender. These flavors highlight local products and the region’s natural landscape.

In addition to ice cream, bakeries in the area offer pastries, cookies, and desserts made with high-quality ingredients. Whether grabbing a cone for a stroll or enjoying a pastry with coffee at a local coffee shop, Prince Arthur’s Landing is a perfect backdrop for a relaxing treat.

9. Craft Beer at Sleeping Giant Brewing Company

Sleeping Giant Brewing Company is a must-visit for craft beer lovers in Thunder Bay. This local brewery focuses on high-quality, small-batch beers inspired by the region’s landscapes and flavors.

Their extensive menu includes IPAs, stouts, and seasonal brews. Many beers incorporate local products, such as wild blueberries and boreal herbs. The brewery’s commitment to local food and sustainability supports the local economy.

Guests can enjoy a cold beer on the outdoor patio, which offers a perfect backdrop with views of the Sleeping Giant rock formation. The brewery also hosts corporate events, live music, and food pairings with local restaurants.

With its friendly staff, welcoming atmosphere, and dedication to quality, Sleeping Giant Brewing Company stands out as one of Thunder Bay’s best places for a refreshing drink. Whether visiting for the first time or returning as a regular, this spot offers a true taste of northwestern Ontario.

10. Unique Breakfasts: French Toast and Sweet Potato Dishes

Breakfast lovers will find plenty of popular dishes in Thunder Bay’s best restaurants. Two standout options are French toast and sweet potato breakfast plates.

Many coffee shops and brunch spots serve French toast with a unique take, adding toppings like caramelized apples, brown sugar, or wild berries. The combination of crisp edges and soft, custardy centers makes this a local favorite.

For a savory option, some restaurants offer sweet potato hash or pancakes. These dishes highlight local products and provide a nutrient-rich, flavorful alternative to traditional breakfast items.

Both dishes pair well with locally roasted coffee and make for a satisfying start to the day. Whether enjoying breakfast in a cozy small room café or a busy brunch spot, these meals showcase favorite foods in Thunder Bay at its best.

Favorite Foods in Thunder Bay —A Feast for the Senses

Thunder Bay’s food scene is bold, diverse, and deeply rooted in history. From the crispy Finnish pancakes at Kangas Sauna to the legendary Persian rolls at Persian Man, each dish tells a story. The region’s Indigenous heritage shines through in wild rice and freshwater foods, while modern flavors thrive at spots like Tomlin Restaurant and Red Lion Smokehouse.

This city isn’t just about good food—it’s about passion, tradition, and community. The local economy thrives thanks to local producers, urban farms, and a substantial area food strategy. Whether indulging in cheese curds from a chip stand, sipping a craft brew at Sleeping Giant Brewing Company, or biting into a sizzling pork belly burger, you’re tasting the very essence of northwestern Ontario.

For first-time visitors, this list offers the best ways to dive into Thunder Bay’s vibrant food culture. For locals, these dishes represent home, history, and a long-time love for flavorful meals.

Hungry yet? It’s time to explore the best restaurants in Thunder Bay—one bite at a time.

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