On the Culinary Trail
Discover the tastes of Muskoka on a
food-&-wine-focused road trip that begins at the iconic Sherwood Inn, then travelling to the Lake Joseph Club and Rocky Crest Golf Resort
Sherwood Inn
1090 Sherwood Road, Port Carling, ON
Century-old pines stand guard over the entrance to Sherwood Inn, where the scenery has not changed much in the property's 85-year history. Nestled along the shores of Lake Joseph, Sherwood Inn is like a portal to Old Muskoka, where laidback charm, old-fashioned hospitality and nature intertwine effortlessly.
Many come on an annual excursion to Sherwood Inn, not just for the quintessential Muskoka getaway experience but to partake in the resort's delectable cuisine and extensive wine collection.
"Muskoka has a unique quality to it when it comes to dining," says Executive Chef José Caneira. The Red Seal Certified chef leads the kitchen at Sherwood Inn, bringing years of International experience and a passion for locally sourced, quality ingredients.
Growing up in Porto and later studying culinary arts among the agricultural lands of northern Portugal, Chef José learned early on that a dish is only as good as the ingredients you put in it.
It is a philosophy that he has kept with him throughout his career and one that is appreciated by local diners, he says.
"The guests in this area are very supportive of quality, and they know quality," he says. "They look for quality and they reward quality."
Sherwood Inn is home to two dining experiences — Vintages Restaurant and the Lounge — as well as a multiple-award-winning wine cellar that boasts more than 2,000 bottles, many of which cannot be purchased at the LCBO. The wines here are sourced through consignment agents who specialize in finding small family-owned producers from around the world.
Some arrive by car or boat just for the food, but for those who want the full experience, an overnight stay is a must. Guests at the Inn are encouraged not just to enjoy the offerings at Sherwood Inn's fine dining restaurant, but to venture into Muskoka on a culinary road trip. Vouchers for a complimentary tasting at one of Sherwood Inn's sister properties comes with every stay.
Caneira has nothing but high praise his fellow chefs at Rocky Crest Golf Resort, The Lake Joesph Club and Grandview Golf Club. "I'm lucky enough to be exposed to these chefs on a regular basis," he says, adding that it is a supportive and collaborative environment.
The Lake Joseph Club
1072 Elgin House Road Port Carling, ON
The Lake Joseph Club features two dining establishments: the Clubhouse Bistro and the Water's Edge Wine Bar & Grill.
At the Clubhouse Bistro, Executive Chef Christopher Byce serves up incredible salads, entrees and sandwiches. While his menu changes with the seasons, you can be sure you'll find something delicious. Watch below as he smokes meat for his famous Reuben, which consists of house made Montreal smoked meat pilled high on marble rye bread.
At the Water's Edge Wine Bar & Grill is a dining room and killer patio situated, as its name suggests, right on the waterfront of Lake Joseph. Executive Chef Dan Kozluk crafts a seasonal menu with favourites such as seafood and grilled meats.
Rocky Crest Golf Resort
20 Barnwood Drive, MacTier, ON
Rocky Crest Golf Resort features three dining establishments: Windows Restaurant, On the Green Bistro and Bayside Patio & Lounge.
Executive Chef Ken Rigby oversees the kitchens at the On the Green Bistro in the Clubhouse. Executive Chef Mustapha Benhadou oversees the culinary operations at Windows Restaurant and Bayside Patio & Lounge.
Tip: Overnight guests at Rocky Crest Golf Resort are extended the same courtesy, with a voucher for a complimentary taste that can be used at any of the other properties, including Sherwood Inn.
Windows Restaurant specializes in Canadiana-inspired food served with a classic Muskoka lake view. The menus change with the seasons, but favourites over the years have included Georgian Bay Pickerel and the Alberta Ribeye.
Window's Restaurant
Window's Restaurant
Overlooking the 18th Hole, On the Green Bistro serves classic Clubhouse fare with some creative additions on the evening menu.
The Bayside Patio & Lounge is a family-friendly casual restaurant with an incredible view over the water. It is a perfect spot for a sunny lunch or to close out the night with friends. From classics like burgers to fresh salads, there's something for every taste.
Grandview Golf Club
245 Grandview Drive North, Huntsville, ON
The Grandview Golf Club in Huntsville features the Bistro, where Executive Chef Joey Runtic serves up seasonal favourites, as well as classics such as burgers and sandwiches.
Back at Sherwood Inn, Chef Caneira is serving up a level of cuisine that is worthy of the inn's culinary reputation, one that has been cultivated since it's opening in 1939.
"Muskoka in the summer reminds me a little bit of the northern Portugal, because it is cool and green," Chef Caneira says. And just like in Portugal, the people here appreciate fresh ingredients.
The kitchen staff make nearly every item from scratch, using local staples such as maple syrup and cranberries in abundance because they are a refection of Muskoka's rich landscapes.
Decades may pass, but the essence of Sherwood Inn and its commitment to culinary only gets better with age.
Sherwood Inn at Lake Joseph is open year round and is located at 1090 Sherwood Road, Port Carling, ON.
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