If all things go according to plan, Huntsville will have a new French Bistro and outdoor seating at 42 Main Street East in time for patio season next year.
The Bistro would be modelled after the 1886 Lake House Bistro in Callander, Shawn Carr, one of the partners, told Huntsville Council at its December 10 meeting.
Carr was before council seeking a licence of occupation for a side patio on the road allowance beside the building. He said the side patio would accommodate about 50 seasonal seats.
He said the additional seating would provide leverage for the year-round business, “As we all know the restaurant business is not a large margin business and therefore the more seats, the more we have an opportunity to be a long-term tenant in our own building, obviously… we’re all from Huntsville at some point and we believe this will greatly enhance the downtown core,” said Carr, adding that the business will create about 10 full-time seasonal positions.
“Our employees, especially in our kitchen, are all on apprenticeships through Red Seal Certification,” said Carr, adding that the business will work with Skilled Trades Ontario to help advance their skills in the industry.
He said the patio would feature Muskoka elements like rockwork, vegetation, and fencing that would be in line with the archway to the park, while maintaining a French Bistro look. He also said the side patio would be elevated and would not interfere with existing drainage.
Carr also submitted letters of support for the project. Councillors approved the licence of occupation and welcomed a new business in Huntsville’s downtown.
Deputy Mayor Dan Armour asked whether they had considered putting outdoor seating on the front of the building, which would be cheaper. Carr said they have an application in for that as well, which would bring their outdoor seating to an estimated 70 seats.
Councillor Scott Morrison asked when the opening day might be. Carr said they’re hoping to have renovations completed in time for patio season. He said they’re aiming for sometime in April 2026.
You can find more information by clicking HERE (pdf).
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Can’t wait looking forward to the opening
Looking forward to visiting a French Bistro in Town. My first reaction was, what about Donnie’s Broom. Glad it will not be affected. It is an important part of Downtown’s History and Culture. This looks like all the ingredients of success. Congratulations.
Looks fantastic, can’t wait to visit! I like the artists rendition of the white lights hung above, wonder if we’ll actually see those. Be a nice addition considering how great the white lights look throughout the downtown this year.