What’ll it be: glad-rags fine-dining or roll-up-your-plaid-sleeves, local pub vibes? Why should you have to choose, that’s what we wanna know. After all, freshly shucked oysters and the crisp kiss of a Martini is our perfect intro, before cracking on with the session ales and a comforting plate of fish and chips. The minds behind The Port Tavern know this, and they’re sure as hell not judging you for it. 

 
While technically outside of Toronto, this restaurant and bar has quickly become the local hotspot in Thornbury, Ontario. If you’re the type who likes to see a celeb chef at the helm, rest easy. Chef Mark McEwan—certified BDIK (Big Deal In Kitchens)—leads the charge, showcasing his knack for dishes that soothe and surprise. Think roast chicken with whipped Yukon potatoes and a failsafe Shepherd's Pie, or notch it up with Steak Tartare and Baked Snails. And when it comes to cocktails, the bar team knows how to keep things classic with a twist. The Portini, for example, mixes Tito's Handmade Vodka with dry vermouth and olives, while the Bourbonetta Sour combines bourbon and amaretto for a luxurious, almond-laced mash-up.

The Port Tavern is an 'all-seasons' kind of place. In winter, get cosy by the fireplace with a maple Old Fashioned; at the chic bar, go for a Collingwood IPA or one of their superb wines; and when the weather warms, the patio is ideal for soaking up Georgian Bay views with a Peach Margarita in hand. The name of the game here is versatility - and quality to match - making The Port Tavern a perfect go-to any time of year.