I Brake for Deliciousness – Top 10 Food Finds
Every year the Ride the Highlands team creates a new list of must see stops where we think you should drop your kickstand in Ontario’s Highlands. This year we are focusing solely on restaurants and giving them the delicious love they deserve. They are what fuel us while riding the Highlands, so we’ve chosen these 10 food stops you should check out, and here’s why:
Routes: Highlands Loop, Rideau Ridge, Meand’rin Motorbikes
An OG to Ride the Highlands, Ashton Brew Pub has been with us from the beginning. One of Canada’s authentic English Pubs, the Ashton Brew Pub doesn’t only serve great ales, but also offers authentic pub fare to keep you going for the rest of your ride. On warmer days the pub will roll up their doors, bringing outdoor dining inside.
Routes: Highlands Loop, Valley Sally
Donuts! Need we say more? The Little Coffee Shop in Cobden reigns supreme with people coming from all over the Valley to try their donut flavours. If you prefer something different, donut worry (see what we did there?), they have other goodies that will cater to your sweet tooth. On those hot riding days, cool off with a Kawartha Dairy ice cream cone.
Routes: Highlands Loop
The Shamrock Bakery is a favourite among locals and riders alike. Owner, Nuala, is very welcoming to all who come through her doors. You might even be lucky enough to try a recipe she is working on. If you’re riding through Plevna on the Highlands Loop, do not miss this stop and try one of her sweet or savoury baked goods, sandwiches or homemade soups on those cooler days.
Routes: Highlands Loop, Deep Valley Run
All great roads (Siberia, Palmer, Rockingham, Old Barry’s Bay) lead to the Bent Anchor Bar & Grill; but that’s not all that’s great about it, so is their food and location. If riding has made you hungry, the Bent Anchor will fill you up with their in-house smoked chicken and pork. Located right on the Madawaska River you will enjoy chill vibes and a real sand beach.
Opening June for Summer 2024 season.
Routes: Highlands Loop, Deep Valley Run, Dynamite Alley
Located in the centre of Bancroft, the Bancroft Eatery & Brew Pub is the perfect spot to brake and take in the hustle and bustle of this busy town. The large patio offers both sunny and shady locations to enjoy some delicious pub grub. After your meal, head next door to pick up some samples from Bancroft Brewing Co to enjoy after your day’s ride.
Routes: Highlands Loop, Deep Valley Run, Pick-Axe Loop
The perfect patio destination on a hot summer day, the Redneck Bistro serves up delicious meals which are anything but redneck. The outdoor patio is surrounded by lush gardens, with shady options to get out of the sun. Fuel up for the fun you are about to have riding Calabogie and Centennial Lake Road.
Routes: Highlands Loop
The Iron Rooster Rotisserie is a must stop for all bikers. Not only do they serve up the best rotisserie chicken in the area, but this joint caters specifically to motorcycle riders, from their décor to menu items. While there, be sure to check out their vintage motorcycle museum.
Routes: Highlands Loop, Dynamite Alley
If you’re looking for a quick break to fuel you up and stretch your legs, Kate’s Burger Counter is your stop. They may be fast food, but everything you order is made fresh. Enjoy a burger and fries at one of their picnic tables, or across the street on one of their benches overlooking Kashagawigamog Lake.
Routes: Highlands Loop, Dynamite Alley
After your ride through Algonquin Park, located just off highway 60, Spectacle Lake Lodge’s Lakeside Smokehouse offers an excellent dining experience. Enjoy great food with a great view on their lakefront patio overlooking Spectacle Lake. Grab something small or try one of their smoked entrees prepared daily.
Routes: Rideau Ridge
Take a break from riding and drop your kickstand at this delicious location. Located along the beautiful Rideau Lake, CC’s offers an amazing dining experience with a great view. Enjoy your meal on their lakeside patio or screened in porch.
Ride the Highlands is all about the roads, but great food comes a close second. We all have to eat right? This season when you’re planning your moto trip to the Highlands, add a few or all of these 10 locations to your list of places to refuel.