Fine dining in the heart of Muskoka

Fresh food with a beautiful lakefront view on Bala Bay

Gluten Free, Vegetarian & Vegan Options Available!

Established 2009

Closeup of a steak dinner with a twice baked potato and garnished with some cherry tomatos | Lakeside Bala Restaurant, Fine Dining in Muskoka and Bala
Chicken dinner on white plate with potatoes and vegetables | Lakeside Bala Restaurant, Fine Dining in Muskoka and Bala

Welcome to Lakeside Restaurant

Bala Bay Lake Muskoka

Experience the finest dining at Lakeside Restaurant, nestled on the serene shores of Bala Bay Lake Muskoka. Whether you’re gathering with loved ones, friends, or colleagues, our restaurant offers breathtaking lake views from nearly every seat, all within a charming cottage-inspired atmosphere. Arrive by boat and dock at our doorstep to savour a memorable evening dinner, surrounded by the beauty and vibrant energy of the Muskoka waterfront. Join us for an unforgettable culinary experience where stunning scenery meets exceptional cuisine.

Waves icon from the main logo | Lakeside Bala Restaurant, Fine Dining in Muskoka and Bala

Come enjoy with us. It is worth the drive!

Whether you’re a loyal returning guest or discovering us for the first time, we warmly invite you to experience Lakeside Restaurant in Bala. Located just four properties to the left of The Kee on Bala Bay, we are easily accessible by boat or by car, situated at the South end of Bala on the main highway through town. Bala is just a 40-minute drive from Parry Sound, Orillia, Midland, and Bracebridge, and the journey is well worth it. Come savour the flavours and the views at Lakeside Restaurant on beautiful Bala Bay, Lake Muskoka.

Floral set up for a upcoming event on lanterns outside on the patio | Lakeside Bala Restaurant, Fine Dining in Muskoka and Bala
Empty indoor seating at restaurant for an event with flowers, plates, and cutlery set up on a long table | Lakeside Bala Restaurant, Fine Dining in Muskoka and Bala

Host your Events at Lakeside

The Perfect setting

Lakeside Bala offers the perfect setting for weddings, rehearsal dinners, milestone birthdays, anniversaries, and corporate events. Our boathouse dining room, with its stunning views of Bala Bay on Lake Muskoka, opens onto a patio and docking area, providing private guests with direct access to the water and breathtaking scenery. Available year-round for private events, the boathouse comfortably accommodates up to 50 guests. Our dedicated staff will work closely with you to create a memorable experience, offering selections from our main menu or crafting a custom menu to suit your needs. We’ve also hosted beautiful wedding ceremonies on our scenic patio.

Wave icon from main logo | Lakeside Bala Restaurant, Fine Dining in Muskoka and Bala

The History of Lakeside Bala

The history of our location adds a touch of nostalgia for many. Once home to a marina and hardware store dating back to 1910, this property has been a cherished landmark in Bala for generations. Acquired by the Ford family in 2006, the site has been thoughtfully transformed into the elegant restaurant you see today. Their vision was to create a dining experience that could stand among the world’s finest, and many of our guests have praised us as a true gem in Muskoka. We are open full-time during the summer season and part-time in the winter, hosting a variety of events, including rehearsal dinners, intimate weddings, business meetings, corporate gatherings, and family celebrations.

  • "We were totally blown away!"

    "We were totally blown away! The food was incredible and the portions were very generous. The service was also excellent. They treated us to some complimentary appetizers, which was a lovely touch. I hope this place gets the support it deserves! Thanks for a great experience."

    STEFANIE MAKAGON
    GOOGLE REVIEW

  • "Martin and Cassandra are such gracious hosts."

    "My husband and I went for a casual dinner, and we were more than pleased with the amazing flavours of the dishes we ordered. Everything exceeded our expectations. Atmosphere is second to none – the view is the best in Bala for sure. Martin and Cassandra are such gracious hosts – they made our experience memorable. Can’t wait to go back and try other dishes!"

    CHRIS ZAVITZ
    GOOGLE REVIEW

  • "The Chefs made every course truly unique."

    "We had the most amazing 8 course dinner on New Years Eve. The Chefs made every course truly unique with outstanding flavours and presentation. The restaurant and bar staff were equally outstanding to insure that the evening was perfect. Can't wait till next year."

    BRAD BURGESS
    GOOGLE REVIEW

  • "Absolutely exquisite food!"

    "Absolutely exquisite food. When you really want to treat yourself to a culinary delight for dinner – you should go here. You will not be disappointed. We had the beef tenderloin, the seafood linguini, and the sticky pudding for dessert. You won’t find anywhere better."

    JANET STEAD
    GOOGLE REVIEW

  • "Our server was fantastic!"

    "My wife and I along with our daughter and partner had an amazing dinner at lakeside yesterday. Louie, our server, was fantastic, warm and welcoming. The salmon was the best we have ever had, loved the topping and fresh veggies. Will be back soon for dinner and dessert – that you can count on."

    LES COLBECK
    GOOGLE REVIEW

  • "Absolutely amazing place!"

    "An absolutely amazing place with extraordinarily delicious food that went above my expectations – the starters, the soup, and the desert. I highly recommend the sautéed shrimp – it was better than any other place I have been to in the GTA. The dessert was decadent and irresistible. I’ll definitely be going there again and again."

    MANAL SENJAB
    GOOGLE REVIEW

  • "Beautiful dining inside and out."

    "Nice restaurant. Beautiful dining inside and outside next to the lake. We tried the Chicken Parm and Chicken Quesadilla and they were so freshly made – tasty and mouth-watering dishes. Thanks to our server Journey, and amazing Chefs Chrys and Kate."

    SAHIL ANAND
    GOOGLE REVIEW

  • "The staff are attentive and friendly."

    "Good service, nice setting, and very good food. The soup specials tend to be very good and they vary them quite a bit. The shrimp and scallop bake appetizer is scrumptious and the seafood linguini is excellent. The staff are attentive and friendly."

    ROYDYN C
    GOOGLE REVIEW

  • "Very attentive to strict dietary restrictions."

    "Good food, good service and very attentive to strict dietary restrictions for one member of our party. (Called a few days before and spoke with the chef) Portions are on the generous side. Reasonable prices. Lovely patio on the water. We will definitely be dining here again!"

    PAULETTE WADE
    GOOGLE REVIEW

  • "If you haven't stopped in, I recommend it."

    "Lakeside Bala is a real treat in the Muskoka neighbourhood. It fits the bill of being a true restaurant as it does focus on the dining experience. The owners have been relentless in developing an atmosphere that my parents would love for a quiet dinner and so would I to take friends or family to enjoy a good meal with wine. It’s a perfect date night destination among other things."

    GARETH SELTZER
    GOOGLE REVIEW