Xl Dry Aged Ribeye
Tomlin Restaurant · Thunder Bay
vadouvan butter, potato seared vegetables, seasonal salad
Restaurants in Thunder Bay
Showing 12 of 12 restaurantsCA$8.00
Side Of Greens
Tomlin Restaurant · Thunder Bay
CA$36.00
Chicken
Tomlin Restaurant · Thunder Bay
yogurt, toum, harissa, pickled peppers, sumac onion, black kale
CA$36.00
Pork Tenderloin
Tomlin Restaurant · Thunder Bay
potato pave, king oyster, mustard veloute, tarragon, dill, pickles
Spaghetti
Tomlin Restaurant · Thunder Bay
duck ragu, spinach, orange, cinnamon, pistachio chili crunch, pecorino
Conchiglie
Tomlin Restaurant · Thunder Bay
squash, sage, brown butter, chicken, vadouvan, peas, ricotta
Brussels And Squash
Tomlin Restaurant · Thunder Bay
romesco, granny smith, kale, almond, pancetta, manchego
Shrimp Toast
Tomlin Restaurant · Thunder Bay
sweet chili, cilantro, sesame, coconut, scallion, lime, jalapeno
Arancini
Tomlin Restaurant · Thunder Bay
guanciale, pesto, pecorino, black pepper, lemon, cured egg yolk
Signature Dishes
Thunder Bay's food scene is characterized by a mix of comfort food classics, locally sourced ingredients, and international flavors, reflecting the city's multicultural heritage.
Persians
A Thunder Bay staple, Persians are sweet, glazed, cinnamon-bun-like pastries, often topped with pink icing. They're a local favorite for breakfast or a sweet treat.
Finnish Pancakes (Pulla)
Reflecting the significant Finnish heritage, Pulla are sweet, braided bread loaves often flavored with cardamom. While technically bread, they are often enjoyed as a treat or dessert.
Lake Superior Fish
Freshly caught Lake Superior fish, such as Whitefish, Walleye (Pickerel), and Lake Trout, are popular choices, often prepared simply grilled, pan-fried, or baked to highlight their natural flavor.
Italian Sausage
Thunder Bay has a strong Italian community, and Italian sausage is a popular ingredient, often found in sandwiches, pasta dishes, and as a standalone item.
Wild Rice Dishes
Wild rice, harvested from the surrounding areas, features prominently in various dishes, including soups, salads, and pilafs, often incorporating other local ingredients like mushrooms and berries.
Local Tips
To truly experience Thunder Bay's culinary scene, keep these tips in mind.
Try a Persian from a Local Bakery
Don't settle for a mass-produced Persian; seek out a freshly baked one from a local bakery for the best taste and experience. Try Bennett's Bakery or Maltese Grocery.
Sample the Local Fish
Whether you're dining at a restaurant or buying directly from a fish market, be sure to try some Lake Superior fish. It's a true taste of the region.
Explore the Italian Delis
Thunder Bay's Italian delis offer a wide range of authentic Italian sausages, cheeses, and other specialty items. Visit Maltese Grocery for a good start.
Embrace the Finnish Influence
Seek out Finnish bakeries and restaurants to experience the flavors of Finland, particularly Pulla, Pannukakku, and other traditional Finnish dishes.
Ontario
About Thunder Bay
Food History
Thunder Bay's cuisine is a fascinating blend influenced by its diverse population, including Finnish, Italian, Polish, and Indigenous communities. The region's history as a fur trading post and industrial center has also shaped its culinary landscape, leading to hearty, comforting dishes that reflect the area's climate and resources.
Food Culture
Food in Thunder Bay is more than just sustenance; it's a way of connecting with the city's history and diverse cultural communities.
Community Bakeries
Local bakeries, particularly those with Finnish and Italian heritage, play a crucial role in maintaining culinary traditions and providing a sense of community. Places to source traditional breads and baked goods.
Lake Superior Fishing
The tradition of fishing on Lake Superior remains a significant part of the local culture, with many residents still actively involved in commercial or recreational fishing.
Farmers' Markets
Farmers' markets offer a venue for showcasing locally grown produce and artisanal food products, fostering a connection between farmers, producers, and consumers.
Cultural Festivals
Festivals celebrating the city's diverse cultures, such as the Finnish summer festival, feature traditional foods and provide an opportunity to experience different culinary traditions.