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Dockside Dining: The Port Tavern, Thornbury, by Celebrity Chef Mark McEwan

Cover Photo

Credit: McEwan Group.

By Mathew Channer

Nov 21, 2024

Dining on or near a marina might not be unusual for boaters, but rarely does one step off their deck and walk straight into a restaurant created by one of Canada’s most renowned chefs.

Mark McEwan has been a familiar name in Canada’s culinary world for more than 40 years. His current portfolio includes five restaurants, two grocery stores, and 11 years as head judge on the Food Network’s Top Chef Canada. Continuing his theme of impressing and delighting his customers, his latest venture, The Port Tavern, recently opened its doors a literal stone’s throw from Thornbury Harbour just past Collingwood on Georgian Bay.

The Port Tavern’s large patio has a great view of Thornbury Harbour. Credit: McEwan Group

Stepping off the harbour property, thirsty boaters will be impressed with the menu of all local beers, a small but diverse wine list, and signature twists on classic cocktails. With a sweeping 110-person patio overlooking Thornbury Harbour, the venue is perfect for an afternoon drink while gazing proudly at your boat and the bay.

Inside, the atmosphere is both comfortable and tasteful, with cool feature art and a fireplace, perfect for those cooler days leading up to haul-out. Credit: Mathew Channer

Having wandered into many bars and restaurants after a nautical adventure, I can vouch that the food at The Port Tavern seems curated with boaters in mind. A day on the water is best accompanied by crowd-favourite meals, and The Port Tavern delivers. Like the décor, the menu is comfortable with just a touch of fancy, offering choices for every mood or occasion. If you’re stopping by for lunch before cruising further on Georgian Bay, you’ll love the appetizer options, which include house-made sausage rolls, steak tartare and yellowfin tuna parfait. (There’s also a great selection of in-house sandwiches.) Or, if you’re coming in for dinner after a big day on the water, you can sample delicious main course options including signature dry-aged steaks, shepherd’s pie, roast chicken, and roasted BBQ spice pickerel. I highly recommend finishing with the cheesecake (mouth-watering) for dessert.

Steak tartare and PEI oysters. Credit: Mathew Channer

With incredible food at affordable prices, a carefully curated dinks menu, great atmosphere, and excellent service, what’s not to love at The Port Tavern? This latest creation from one of Canada’s best chefs is a welcome addition to bayside dining on Georgian Bay, and the perfect pit stop for boaters throughout the season!

For more information or to make a booking visit https://mcewangroup.ca/the-port-tavern/

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