Hidden Food Gems in Orillia: Discover the City’s Best-Kept Culinary Secrets
Orillia is known for its beautiful lakes and artistic spirit, but it also boasts a diverse and exciting food scene. Beyond the popular spots, the city has hidden gems offering unique and delicious dining experiences. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a fresh culinary adventure, these hidden treasures are worth discovering.
Mark IV Brothers
Tucked away just a short walk from downtown Orillia, Mark IV Brothers is a cozy, independently-owned café that's beloved by locals. Known for its artisan coffee and freshly baked goods, this café is the perfect spot for a morning pick-me-up or a quiet afternoon. Their locally roasted coffee and house-made pastries, like their flaky croissants, are not to be missed.
Their small but delicious menu of sandwiches and soups also makes it an ideal stop for a light lunch, all served in a warm, welcoming space with rustic decor.
Rustica Pizza Vino
For authentic wood-fired pizza, Rustica Pizza Vino in downtown Orillia is the place to be. Specializing in traditional Neapolitan pizza, Rustica delivers on quality and flavor, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and cooking their pizzas in a wood-fired oven for that perfect charred crust.
Rustica's cozy, intimate atmosphere adds to its appeal, whether you’re on a casual date night or dining with friends. Beyond pizza, the menu also features classic Italian antipasti and house-made pasta dishes that rotate with the seasons.
The Common Stove
One of Orillia’s rising stars in the food scene, The Common Stove offers a farm-to-table dining experience that has quickly become a local favorite. The restaurant focuses on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, with a menu that changes regularly based on what’s fresh and available. Known for its wood-fired meats and vegetables, The Common Stove offers elevated yet approachable dishes like grilled octopus, lamb ribs, and roast chicken, all cooked over open flames.
The interior of The Common Stove is a blend of rustic charm and modern chic, with a welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner with friends. Their craft cocktail list and selection of Ontario wines make this spot a complete dining experience.
Apple Annie’s Café
Apple Annie’s Café, a charming spot in a heritage building, offers an eclectic menu of homemade soups, salads, and baked goods. It’s a cozy, vintage café with a comfortable atmosphere that feels like a throwback to simpler times.
Known for their fresh, made-from-scratch quiches, hearty sandwiches, and irresistible desserts, Apple Annie’s is a great stop for brunch or lunch. Their pies, in particular, are a crowd favorite and often sell out, so be sure to get there early!
Theo’s Eatery
Theo’s Eatery is a beloved, family-run restaurant offering a blend of Italian and Greek cuisine. Known for its generous portions and home-style cooking, Theo’s is a go-to spot for locals seeking hearty comfort food. Their lasagna, souvlaki, and pizza are all customer favorites, and the friendly service keeps people coming back.
Whether you're craving a quick, casual meal or something more substantial, Theo’s offers an extensive menu that delivers on flavor and value.
Shine Juice Bar & Café
For those looking for healthier dining options, Shine Juice Bar & Café is a refreshing hidden gem. Specializing in plant-based meals, cold-pressed juices, and smoothies, Shine’s menu is full of fresh, nutritious options that are as delicious as they are good for you.
Their signature bowls, wraps, and salads are packed with vibrant flavors, and the cold-pressed juices provide an energizing boost for those on the go. Shine’s relaxed, welcoming vibe makes it a great spot for a light lunch or post-workout snack.
Mariposa Market
Though well-known to locals, Mariposa Market still holds hidden gem status for visitors. This bakery and café is packed with homemade goodies, from breads to cookies to cakes. But beyond its famous baked goods, Mariposa also offers an array of savory options, including freshly made sandwiches, soups, and quiches.
Their deli counter is perfect for picking up a quick and tasty lunch, while their extensive selection of sweet treats—like butter tarts and brownies—makes it hard to leave without something for dessert.
Orillia is home to an impressive array of hidden food gems, each offering its own unique flavor and charm. Whether you’re looking for a cozy café, a wood-fired pizza spot, or an elevated farm-to-table dining experience, Orillia’s culinary scene has something for every palate. Next time you’re wondering what to eat, be sure to explore these off-the-beaten-path spots for a taste of what the city truly has to offer.