Windermere House

There is absolutely nothing more perfect than a patio overlooking a lake on a long summer weekend. The 'Wasabi' sushi spot at Windermere House in Muskoka is a random combination of sushi spot and chill veranda bar at a classy cottage style hotel. You have a sweeping view of the lake from every seat, framed by the stone pillars. The comfy couches and lounge chairs make an ideal spot for afternoon cocktail hour (and who am I kidding - I've been sitting here now for about 3 hours reading and enjoying a glass or two of Nautilus Sauvignon Blanc). I never would have guessed that sushi fits into this picture, but the light, small plates make for perfect snacking at just about any time of day/night. Apparently O&B took over the food options at Windemere House last year, and they've nailed the veranda.

• Relish: The food served on the veranda is standard sushi, with a small selection of additional pub-style appetizers. It's good sushi. The seaweed salad is delicious.  
• Quaff: This is absolutely the spot for a cocktail hour drink or a glass of wine at dusk. A good wine list with ~20 wines by the glass (typical O&B selections) is accompanied by a few signature cocktails - the servers are excellent and happy to make suggestions. 
• Feel: Very relaxed. People wander up from the lake (or the boats they drive up to the dock), enjoy a drink or two, then take off again. Guests at the hotel linger a bit longer (e.g., the multiple hours I've now spent here today), and diners heading to the Rosseau Grill for dinner have an aperitif on the patio. It creates a nice atmosphere of a busy, happening spot. The servers are excellent - very friendly and professional. 

I would absolutely recommend it - the only thing better might be if you have your own cottage-veranda overlooking lake Rosseau, and your own sushi chef...in which case...invite please?

Enjoy!
w: Windermere House