Grey County, the region that encompasses Blue Mountain, Collingwood, and the surrounding countryside, has quietly developed into one of Ontario's most exciting culinary regions. The combination of fertile farmland, passionate producers, talented chefs, and a growing food tourism industry has created a farm-to-table scene that rivals better-known destinations.
Why Grey County for Food Lovers
The rolling terrain, moderate climate influenced by Georgian Bay, and rich soils produce exceptional fruits, vegetables, grains, and livestock. The stretch of land between Thornbury and Meaford is Ontario's premier apple-growing region, and this heritage has expanded into cider production, orchards, and related food businesses.
In the past decade, a wave of chefs, bakers, farmers, and food artisans have established businesses in Grey County. Many relocated from Toronto and other cities, bringing fine-dining experience and creative vision to a region with outstanding local ingredients.
Key Farm-to-Table Experiences
The Huron Club (Collingwood)
Chef-driven menu that changes with the seasons, sourcing heavily from local farms and producers. The kitchen maintains relationships with specific farms and builds dishes around what is available and at its peak.
Ravenna Country Market
This destination in the countryside combines a farm market with prepared foods, baked goods, and a community gathering space. The market sources from dozens of local producers and offers a taste of the region's agricultural diversity.
Bruce Wine Bar (Thornbury)
A charming wine bar in downtown Thornbury that pairs local and regional wines with cheese, charcuterie, and small plates. The selection emphasizes Ontario wines, including several from Grey County.
Farmers Markets
Collingwood Farmers Market
Operating on Saturdays during the growing season, this market brings together local farmers, bakers, cheese makers, and artisan food producers. This is the best single stop for experiencing the breadth of Grey County's food culture.
What you will find: fresh seasonal produce, artisan breads, local cheeses, honey from area beekeepers, preserves and fermented foods, and prepared foods ready to eat.
Thornbury and Meaford Markets
These smaller markets offer equally authentic experiences with a focus on the apple and agricultural heritage of their respective areas.
Local Producers Worth Knowing
The area is home to artisan cheese makers, bread bakers using local flours, beekeepers producing wildflower honey, cideries making still and sparkling ciders from local apples, and farms raising livestock using sustainable practices.
Creating Your Own Food Tour
- <strong>Morning</strong>: — Visit the Collingwood Farmers Market
- <strong>Late morning</strong>: — Drive to Thornbury for the cidery and shops
- <strong>Lunch</strong>: — Bruce Wine Bar for wine and charcuterie
- <strong>Afternoon</strong>: — Visit a local farm or orchard
- <strong>Dinner</strong>: — Cook a farm-to-table meal at your chalet using the day's ingredients
Cooking at Your Chalet
One of the most rewarding food experiences in Grey County is buying ingredients from local producers and preparing them yourself. Blue View Chalets provides fully equipped kitchens that make this experience possible. With quality cookware, proper ovens, and spacious prep areas, our chalets are set up for serious cooking. Some of our guests' most memorable meals have been ones they prepared from ingredients gathered at local farms and markets.
Seasonal Highlights
- **Spring:** Asparagus and ramp season, maple syrup
- **Summer:** Berry season, fresh corn and tomatoes
- **Fall:** Apple harvest, root vegetables, Thanksgiving ingredients
- **Winter:** Root cellared vegetables, preserved foods, comfort food at local restaurants
Or call us at (416) 203-2057
