Dock of the Bay: A Perfect Sunset Dinner on Lake Muskoka
A beautiful sunset dinner at Dock of the Bay on Lake Muskoka in Gravenhurst. Great food, stunning waterfront views, and a family-friendly atmosphere that made for the perfect end to our summer in Muskoka.
If you are looking for the ultimate lakeside dining experience in Muskoka, Dock of the Bay in Gravenhurst should be at the top of your list. Situated right on the Muskoka Wharf with unobstructed views of Lake Muskoka, this restaurant delivers on every front: incredible food, stunning scenery, and a warm atmosphere that makes you want to linger long after the sun goes down.
We visited on a warm August evening for what turned out to be our final dinner of the summer in Muskoka. And what a way to close out the season.
The Setting
Dock of the Bay sits right at the water's edge on the Muskoka Wharf in Gravenhurst. The outdoor patio is the real star here, with tables positioned so close to the lake you can practically dip your toes in. Green Muskoka Detour Brewery umbrellas provide shade during the day, and as the sun begins to set, the entire patio is bathed in golden light reflecting off the water.
The architecture has a classic Muskoka boathouse feel with exposed wooden beams and a relaxed cottage-country vibe. Despite being a popular spot (the patio was packed on a Saturday evening), the service was attentive and the atmosphere never felt rushed.
The Food
Dock of the Bay is known as a steak and seafood grille, and the menu reflects that with a solid selection of grilled proteins, fresh seafood, and creative appetizers. We started with their Caesar with a Twist, which arrived beautifully plated with crispy parmesan chips, house-made croutons, and perfectly dressed romaine. It was generous enough to share (though we did not want to).
The cocktails deserve a special mention. Served in elegant coupe glasses with the lake shimmering behind them, they tasted as good as they looked. The golden hour light made everything on the table look like it belonged in a magazine.
Family-Friendly Vibes
We brought both kids (ages 5 and 3) and they were perfectly comfortable. The restaurant has a kids menu, and the outdoor setting means a little extra noise from excited children blends right into the lively patio atmosphere. Our daughter was busy colouring while our son was fascinated watching boats come and go from the dock.
The staff were friendly with the kids and patient with our requests. It felt like a place where families are genuinely welcome, not just tolerated.
The Sunset
Timing your dinner for sunset is the move here. As the sun drops behind the tree line across the lake, the sky turns shades of pink, orange, and purple that reflect perfectly off the calm water. It transforms an already great meal into something truly memorable.
The Details
Restaurant: Dock of the Bay Steak and Seafood Grille
Location: 1110 Bay Street, Gravenhurst, Ontario (Muskoka Wharf)
Cuisine: Steak, seafood, pasta, Canadian
Price Range: $$$ (entrees $28-55 CAD)
Reservations: Highly recommended, especially for patio seating at sunset
Kid-Friendly: Yes, kids menu available
Hours: Lunch 11am-3pm, Dinner 4pm-9pm (seasonal, open summer months)
Website: dockofthebay.ca
Our Verdict
Dock of the Bay earned its spot on OpenTable's Top 100 Outdoor Dining Restaurants in Canada, and after experiencing it firsthand, we completely understand why. The combination of waterfront location, quality food, and that magical Muskoka sunset makes it one of the best dining experiences we have had in Ontario.
If you are spending time in Muskoka this summer, make a reservation for a sunset dinner here. You will not regret it.