Life in the friendly, lake side hamlet of Port Bruce is like being on a permanent vacation. The community’s quiet, tranquil atmosphere is perfect for anyone who wants to get away from the hustle and bustle of day to day life and really enjoy every moment. For decades the Port Bruce Pier has been a prime location for anglers to spend an enjoyable afternoon reeling in Lake Erie Perch and Pickerel, and the beach is one of the best spots in the area to take in a stunning sunset. In 2016 Mobility Mats were installed along the beach allowing for greater waterfront access and enjoyment.
For the past six years, from dawn to dusk each day the Corner View Café has been a staple for Port Bruce residents and visitors alike. Located - at the corner of Colin Street and Imperial Road, just steps from the beach, it offers ample indoor and patio seating and is the perfect place to spend a relaxing couple of hours enjoying a bite to eat.
The restaurant is open for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner and a friendly staff serves up a variety of different options in generous portions. Corner View Café offers a large menu that varies with the seasons. More hearty dishes including shepherd’s pie and chicken pot pie are offered in the spring and fall while the summer months are dominated by fresh Perch and Pickerel, house made hamburgers, salads, wraps, french fries, onion rings, and ice cream! The restaurant even makes a point of sourcing its ice cream locally – at Shaw’s Ice Cream in nearby Port Stanley.
“Everything we make is fresh to order,” said owner Nathan Smale. “We want customers to leave with their stomachs full and smiles on their faces.”
Nathan bought the restaurant from a friend six years ago after working as an employee for a year. He participated in the Elgin Business Resource Centre’s Self-Employment Benefits Program and was the recipient of the organization’s 2012 Small Business Start-up Award. Recently he also received the Elgin Business Resource Centre’s Jeffrey Karp Award for successfully reaching the milestone of five years in business. He credits hard-work and the supportive community in Port Bruce for helping his business to grow.
“We all know each other around here,” says Nathan. “We might be a small community but everyone here is treated like family.”
The restaurant is open from March to November each year with hours that vary seasonally. At the height of summer (July to Mid-September) Corner View Café is open seven days a week. For restaurant hours, menu, and more information visit Corner View Café on Facebook.