With help from Muskoka Charcuterie Co’s Owner, Jocelyn Couture, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 dairy spots to hit up in Muskoka this summer!
Whether you’re a cold treat or sun-soaked picnic type of person, we’ve got just the place for you. Read on to find your next Muskoka hot spot…
1 Rice Street, Rosseau
The Rosseau General store is a true Muskoka staple with their quaint store sure to catch your eye while travelling through the town. With coolers full of local Ontario Dairy goodness, from cheese to butter, it’s a one-stop shop for all your dairy staples whether they be for home, the cottage, or a road trip snack. I can never stop in without grabbing a nice cold bottle of Sheldon Creek Chocolate milk or indulging in a hand scooped ice cream cone on the way out!
101 Entrance Drive, Bracebridge
In the heart of cottage country, you can find The Farm Store, located right in the Muskoka Foundry. Offering so many local products with local cheese being a big highlight… My go-to is always Thornloe’s (THOR-LOW) Devil’s Rock Creamy Blue Cheese. Equipped with many other local goodies including fresh produce, meats and preserves, The Farm Store is a must for charcuterie essentials. Once you’ve filled your basket, take a walk through the foundry to soak in its beauty, and don’t forget to sign the chalkboards!
The Farmer’s Market
83 Bowes Street, Parry Sound
Located in Parry Sound, The Farmer’s Market is just a short drive down the hill once you’re off highway 400. With a huge selection of Ontario cheeses - Black River Gouda being my favourite - it’s hard to pick one… so don’t! Load up for your next DIY cheese-board and show it off by tagging Savour Ontario and Muskoka Charcuterie Co.!
1490 Dee Bank Road, Windermere
Located in Windermere, getting here includes a beautiful drive filled with windy roads. Upon arrival, you’ll be surrounded by huge strawberry fields and all the joyful people picking their own! This has to be my favourite spot to enjoy one of my charcuterie boxes; topping off each piece of artisan Ontario cheese - which can be found in their store, as well! - with a fresh, handpicked strawberry. After an indulging lunch, I never pass up the chance to stock up on my favourite Kawartha Dairy ice cream...by the bucket!
8 Harris Street, Port Carling
After 95 years in business, it’s safe to say that Stephen’s Butcher Shop is not only one of the highest quality butchers in the area but has become Muskoka’s one stop shop for your next artisan food experience – whether you’re coming by boat or car. With a wide variety of local produce, baked goods, and of course dairy, you’re sure to find complimenting products for your next charcuterie graze. After many trips, I simply cannot make it out the door without a wedge of Stonetown’s white wine-soaked cheese, Game Changer. Be sure to check in often as their dairy selection rotates, with something new and exciting upon every visit!