Summer Eating in North Simcoe – By Kari Belcourt, North Simcoe Springwater News
Summer has a way of making us hungry.
Maybe it’s a long day at the beach, an afternoon at the ball diamond, a trip to the zoo, a day spent exploring back roads, or simply trying to keep up with the never-ending list of summer activities. By the time dinner rolls around, the last thing many of us want to do is heat up the kitchen and start cooking.
Fortunately, you don’t have to look far for a summer meal in North Simcoe.
From classic chip trucks to fish and chips, burgers, poutine, ice cream and some more adventurous street food, local food trucks are a big part of the summer experience. They’re quick, casual and, best of all, they give us another reason to get out and enjoy our own backyard.
Just outside Hillsdale on County Road 93 at 2334 Cassell Drive, Springwater, you’ll find Freddies Dam Good Fries, a Springwater favourite that has been serving up fries for more than 29 years.
With crispy fries, loaded poutines, burgers, hot dogs and plenty of other classic favourites, it’s the kind of roadside stop that has become part of the summer routine for many local families.
In Anten Mills, locals were excited to see The Fry Guy return for another summer season. Located on Horseshoe Valley Road West, the popular food truck has once again become a stop for both residents and seasonal travellers passing through the area.
Open daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., it’s another easy option when you’re looking for something quick without sacrificing the summer experience.
Further north, Perky’s Fries has locations in both Perkinsfield and Elmvale. The roadside fish and chippery serves up classic favourites including hamburgers, hot dogs and, of course, fish and chips.
Their haddock and fries are a standout choice and make for a great meal after a trip to the zoo or as you make your way toward the beaches of Tiny.
Perky’s Fries – Perkinsfield
165 County Road 6 S, Tiny
Perky’s Fries – Elmvale
14218 County Road 27, Elmvale
In Waverley, The Goofy Newfie is back for another summer at the four corners. Along with fries and fish, the popular stop is known for its big scoops of ice cream — perfect for cooling down on a hot summer afternoon.
It’s also more than just a grab-and-go stop. Visitors can sit and enjoy the outdoor seating area, challenge friends to a game of cornhole or take part in some of the lawn games.
Over in Wyebridge, The Hungry Hustler is bringing elevated street food to the community this summer.
Tucked away near the bridge off Highway 93, the food truck has developed a following for favourites such as brisket and lobster rolls. If you’re planning a visit, check their Facebook page before heading out and consider arriving early — some of their most popular items can sell out quickly.
And in Penetanguishene, summer visitors can once again find Clarence’s Classics, better known to many as the Red Bus.
Located at Penetang Waterfront Park beside the splash pad, the big red bus offers the classic chip-truck experience and is perfectly situated for families spending a summer day at Rotary Park.
From Hillsdale to Penetanguishene, and from Elmvale to Wyebridge, these seasonal food stops are more than just convenient places to grab dinner. They are part of what makes summer in North Simcoe feel like summer.
There’s something about eating outside, sitting at a picnic table, watching the traffic roll by and enjoying a meal you didn’t have to cook.
So, the next time the calendar is packed, the sun is shining and nobody feels like making dinner, take the scenic route home.
Follow the smell of the fries. Try somewhere local. And make a summer memory while you’re at it.