Bruce County, nestled along the shores of Lake Huron in Ontario, is a hidden gem bursting with small-town charm and big-time flavour. This blog highlights only a sliver of what the region has to offer, focusing on three standout towns—Southampton, Port Elgin, Kincardine, and Paisley—each serving up its own local character, culinary hotspots, and lakeside magic. There’s so much more to explore in Bruce County, but these stops are the perfect place to start your journey.
Whether you’re here for the sunsets, the scenic drives, Bruce County delivers the goods.
Southampton
A tranquil town known for its golden beaches, heritage architecture, and relaxed coastal vibes, Southampton is the kind of place where time slows down and lake breezes lead the way. Walkable and welcoming, its downtown is filled with boutiques, bakeries, and beloved eateries.
Sweet Treats at Local Bakeries
Start your visit on High Street, where local shops and friendly faces set the tone. A must-visit? Offshore Bakery—a small-town staple where everything is made fresh, from flaky croissants to buttery cookies and crusty loaves of artisan bread.
Pro Tip: Time your visit early—popular items tend to sell out before noon, especially on weekends!
The Beach Motel
Planning to stay the night? Check into The Beach Motel, a boutique gem where minimalism meets modern comfort. It’s just steps from the sand and perfect for sunset chasers.
Thai Food in Southampton
Where: 23 Albert St S, Southampton, ON (View Map)
Dinner calls for something aromatic and soul-warming. Enter Southampton Thai Cuisine. Start with the Fresh Mango Rolls, wrapped in soft rice paper and filled with crunchy carrots, cucumber, lettuce, mint, and cilantro—served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce and crushed peanuts.
For mains, the Peanut Curry is a rich and creamy crowd-pleaser, bursting with coconut milk, basil, and lime leaf. If noodles are calling your name, the Pad See Ew delivers with chewy flat noodles, eggs, and Chinese broccoli tossed in their signature homemade sauce.
Pro Tip: Order a couple of mains to share—you’ll want to try everything on the table.
Port Elgin
A vibrant beach town with a lively boardwalk and a strong community spirit, Port Elgin is the perfect stop for craft beer, comfort food, and lakeside leisure. It’s got the buzz of a summer escape and the flavour to match.
Three Sheets Brewing
Where: 1246 Goderich St, Port Elgin, ON (View Map)
This lively craft brewery promises “a vacation in every glass,” and honestly—it delivers. Three Sheets Brewing has become a go-to for creative brews and a chill taproom vibe that invites you to stay awhile.
Try a flight featuring favourites like Puerto Elguino Cerveza, a Mexican-style lager, or the Slight Delay Double IPA, a bold, hoppy brew that lives up to its name.
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Pro Tip: Three Sheets often hosts live music and events—check their socials before your visit to catch some tunes with your brews.
The Wismer House
Where: 705 Goderich St, Port Elgin (View Map)
Craving comfort food? Head to The Wismer House, a casual-yet-buzzing eatery where the vibe is always right. Crowd-pleasers include the Hot Honey Halloumi Bites, a juicy Smash Burger, and the Fry Board—three kinds of fries with an array of dips for your dunking delight.
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Kincardine
Further south along the Lake Huron shoreline, Kincardine blends Scottish heritage with beach town ease. Stroll the lighthouse, wander the marina, or just take in the hustle and bustle of the town—then head to these unforgettable dining spots.
George’s on Harbour
Where: 217 Harbour St, Kincardine, ON (View Map)
Set right on the waterfront, George’s on Harbour is all about elevated dining with casual elegance. Enjoy sweeping views of the marina while savouring dishes like their fresh Roasted Beet Salad, rich Steak Tartare, or one of their Napolitana-style pizzas. Our favourite? The Spicy Chorizo Pizza—full of bold heat and crispy toppings.
Pro Tip: Request a patio table for a front-row seat to one of the best sunsets in Ontario.
Paisley
Bonfire on Queen
Where: 342 Queen St N, Paisley, ON (View Map)
Tucked in the heart of Paisley but still within Kincardine’s culinary orbit, Bonfire on Queen serves Italian-inspired comfort food in a cozy, character-filled space. Their rotating menu reflects seasonal ingredients, with Neapolitan-style pizzas, hand-rolled pastas, and scratch-made meatballs taking center stage.
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Pro Tip: This is the kind of place you’ll want to linger—grab a glass of local wine, order a few small plates, and unwind into the evening.
Plan Your Bruce County Foodie Getaway
From golden sunsets to piping hot pizzas, Bruce County is full of places to eat, drink, and discover. And this list? It’s just the beginning. Beyond Southampton, Port Elgin, and Kincardine lie more towns, more flavours, and more reasons to hit the road again.
So pack your appetite, cue up the road trip playlist, and let Bruce County surprise you—one bite at a time.
