Lifestyle

Published July 2, 2024

From fine dining to lakeside cocktails: Must try date night restaurants

date night restaurants

This Barrie 360 feature is brought to you by Mattamy Homes.

Are you looking for an unforgettable date night experience? Look no further than the vibrant culinary scene of Barrie, Innisfil, and its surrounding areas. 

From waterfront elegance to intimate trattorias, this guide is sure to have the perfect restaurant for your next date night!

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Downtown Barrie 

Whether you're seeking stunning waterfront views, delicious meals, a wide selection of wines, or romantic ambiance, downtown Barrie has a wide selection of restaurants to choose from for the perfect date night.

Bayside Variety: Neighbourhood gem with lakeside charm

For a memorable date night with a touch of casual elegance, head to Bayside Variety. This neighbourhood eatery, cocktail and wine bar, located on the shores of Kempenfelt Bay, offers a casual yet sophisticated setting for your date night.  

Their menu features a delicious selection of shareable plates and delectable entrees, perfect for a light bite or a satisfying meal, as well as a carefully curated selection of wines and handcrafted cocktails, all designed to complement the fresh, seasonal flavors of their dishes.  

147 Ristorante: Waterfront elegance with Italian flair

If you're looking for something truly special, consider booking a table at 147 Ristorante. This waterfront gem features an impressive wine list, an intimate setting, and a relaxed take on fine-dining Italian cuisine. Enjoy breathtaking views of Kempenfelt Bay while savoring delicious dishes prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

147 has a thoughtfully curated menu featuring a selection of delectable appetizers, succulent steaks, and flavourful pasta dishes. Don't miss their signature filet mignon, served with perfectly roasted vegetables and potatoes.  

Bacio Trattoria: A taste of Nona's kitchen

Craving a taste of authentic Italian comfort food? Look no further than Bacio Trattoria! 

This family-run restaurant offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of a traditional Italian home. The owners bring their passion for Italian cuisine directly from their roots near Rome, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and dishes cooked to order. 

Their menu features a wide variety of Italian classics, from seafood salad to their famous tiramisu. Everything is made from scratch, ensuring a delicious and authentic dining experience. 

The North Restaurant: Contemporary cuisine in a vibrant setting

For a more contemporary twist, The North Restaurant offers a unique take on fine-dining. 

The North Restaurant strikes the perfect balance between upscale and inviting, offering a vibrant atmosphere that's perfect for conversation, without any pretense.

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Chef Marco Ormonde's innovative menu showcases seasonal ingredients and bursts with creativity. Each dish is beautifully presented and offers an explosion of flavors, making for a truly memorable dining experience.

Il Buco: A taste of authentic Italy

For an undeniably luxurious experience, Il Buco downtown is a perfect choice. This established restaurant offers a taste of Italy with a focus on fresh, authentic dishes and an award-winning atmosphere.  

Indulge in an evening of exquisite cuisine and impeccable service, perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a romantic night out.

Michael and Marion's: Intimate tapas and expertly crafted cocktails

In the heart of Barrie's core, Michael and Marion's offers an intimate setting with a focus on clever tapas and expertly crafted cocktails. Their staff provides exceptional service, making it a great choice for a relaxed and sophisticated date night. 

Step away from the traditional dinner menu and explore a world of culinary discovery with their selection of delectable tapas plates. Share a variety of small dishes, perfect for conversation and grazing, allowing you to sample a wider range of flavors.

The Farmhouse: Waterfront views and fresh comfort food

If you're looking to take in the beauty of Barrie's waterfront and enjoy a delicious meal in a relaxed setting, The Farmhouse won't disappoint. This family-friendly restaurant offers stunning lake views alongside a menu of fresh comfort food prepared with local ingredients. 

Chef, Randy Feltis, puts his heart and soul into creating a menu that's both comforting and exciting. Think mouthwatering pan-seared scallops with creamy risotto, or a juicy steak paired with roasted seasonal vegetables. Don't forget to leave room for dessert – their homemade options are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Venturing beyond Barrie: Fine dining experiences await

Just outside of Barrie, Simcoe County offers a variety of restaurants to tantalize your taste buds, perfect for a special occasion, date with friends, or a night of exploration.

The Lake Club: Upscale ambiance at Friday Harbour Resort in Innisfil

For an upscale experience with international flair, head to The Lake Club at Friday Harbour Resort. This exclusive restaurant boasts an elegant atmosphere with stunning marina views.  Floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to take in the beauty of the surroundings while enjoying a curated menu featuring dishes from around the globe. 

Expect to find expertly prepared seafood, succulent steaks, and a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. The Lake Club's wine list is equally impressive, offering a wide selection of international wines to complement any meal.

The Beach Club: Casual lakeside dining at Friday Harbour Resort in Innisfil

For a more casual experience outside of Barrie, The Beach Club at Friday Harbour Resort offers a robust menu with something for everyone. Enjoy a dedicated brunch menu featuring classic breakfast dishes with a twist, or savor delicious lunch and dinner options from their main menu.

The Beach Club's beautiful lakeside patio is the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely afternoon or evening. Sit back, relax, and take in the stunning views while indulging in delicious food and refreshing drinks.  

Their extensive menu ensures there's something to please every palate, from juicy burgers and fresh salads to succulent steaks and creative seafood dishes.

Marine Room Gastropub: More lakeside dining at Friday Harbour Resort in Innisfil

The Marine Room is the perfect spot for a laid-back yet enjoyable date night, offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and beautiful lakeside scenery. The restaurant itself boasts a casual yet stylish atmosphere. Think exposed brick walls, comfortable seating, and a relaxed vibe that's perfect for conversation and enjoying a leisurely meal.

Their menu features a wide selection of appetizers, pub fare, and delectable main courses. Everything, from their signature dishes to their fresh-baked bread, is made from scratch using high-quality ingredients. 

The KTCHN at Braestone Club: Modern fine dining with a view in Oro Medonte

If you're looking for something a little out of the ordinary and willing to venture a bit further, The KTCHN at Braestone Club in Oro Medonte offers a modern take on fine dining with breathtaking views. Nestled within the clubhouse, this restaurant boasts a stylish and sophisticated atmosphere.

Expect to find unexpected flavor combinations and beautifully presented plates that are a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The KTCHN also offers a curated drink selection, featuring small production wines and beers, alongside expertly crafted cocktails.

The Common Stove: Farm-to-table delights in Orillia

Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner for two or a fun night out with friends, The Common Stove offers a memorable dining experience. Located across from the Orillia Opera House, The Common Stove is widely regarded as the best steakhouse & cocktail bar in Simcoe County. 

Their menu features dishes prepared using a wood-fired grill, infusing each dish with a smoky and flavorful depth. Expect to find succulent steaks, fresh seafood, and seasonal vegetables, all cooked to perfection. They are a Feast ON certified restaurant, showcasing their commitment to using ingredients from Ontario farms.

Picnic Tapas and Wine Bar: A taste of Spain in Orillia

For a taste of the Basque country (Southern France & Northern Spain), head to Picnic Tapas and Wine Bar in Orillia. Expect to find a variety of delicious small plates featuring fresh seafood, cured meats, and seasonal vegetables, all prepared with a Basque twist.

Picnic Tapas and Wine Bar also boasts an extensive wine list, with a focus on Spanish and French wines. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or just enjoy exploring new options, their knowledgeable staff is happy to assist you in finding the perfect pairing for your tapas selection.

The perfect restaurants for date night in Barrie and area

Whether you’re looking for breathtaking views, or amazing flavours, you can be sure you’ll have a memorable night with your date at any one of these restaurants.  

RELATED: The best patios to enjoy a delicious meal in Barrie ...

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