Est. 2015 β€” Barrie, Ontario

Our Story

A passion for exceptional food, unforgettable experiences, and the art of hospitality β€” born in the heart of Barrie.

Ember & Oak fine dining Restaurant interior

Crafted with Passion

Ember & Oak was born from a simple yet powerful belief: that a great meal is more than food on a plate β€” it's a moment in time, a memory in the making, a gathering of people who matter.

Founded in 2015 by Chef Marco Rossi and restaurateur Elena Fontaine, Ember & Oak set out to bring Michelin-level cuisine to the heart of Barrie, Ontario β€” without sacrificing the warmth and character that makes dining truly special.

Nine years later, we've served over 50,000 guests, earned 3 national awards, and remain committed to the same principles that started it all: exceptional ingredients, meticulous craft, and genuine hospitality.

"Every dish we create is a love letter to the seasons, the farmers, and the guests who trust us to feed them well." β€” Chef Marco Rossi
Reserve Your Table

What We Believe In

Three core values guide everything we do β€” from sourcing ingredients to serving the last course.

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Local & Seasonal

We partner with Ontario farmers and producers to bring you the freshest seasonal ingredients on your plate, harvested at their peak.

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Culinary Craft

Every dish is a result of years of training, creative vision, and relentless pursuit of perfection. We never stop refining our craft.

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Genuine Hospitality

From your first step through our doors to the last bite of dessert, we treat every guest like family. Your experience is our priority.

Meet Our Team

World-class talent united by a shared love of exceptional food and service.

Chef Marco Rossi
Chef Marco Rossi
Executive Chef & Co-Founder

Trained at Le Cordon Bleu Paris and honed his craft in Michelin-starred kitchens across Europe and NYC. Marco returned to Canada to share his passion with Barrie.

Elena Fontaine
Elena Fontaine
Co-Founder & General Manager

With 18 years in luxury hospitality across Toronto, Montreal, and London, Elena's vision for warm, world-class service forms the soul of Ember & Oak.

Sofia Chen
Sofia Chen
Pastry Chef

A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, Sofia brings artistry and precision to every dessert. Her chocolate lava cake has become a Barrie icon.

James Laurent
James Laurent
Head Sommelier

A WSET Level 4 certified sommelier, James curates our 200+ bottle wine list and crafts the perfect pairing to elevate every meal to a complete experience.

Nine Years of Excellence

2015

The Beginning

Ember & Oak opens its doors at 123 Bayfield Street. 40 seats, big dreams, and Chef Marco's first tasting menu sells out in hours.

2017

First Award

Named "Best New Restaurant in Ontario" by Taste Canada. A validation of our commitment to quality and innovation.

2020

Resilience & Growth

Launched online ordering and a takeout program during the pandemic, serving over 5,000 meals to the Barrie community.

2024

50,000 Guests Served

Celebrating our milestone of 50,000 guests served, a renovated dining room, and launching our Sunday Brunch experience.

Awards & Accolades

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Best Restaurant in Ontario
Taste Canada Awards β€” 2017
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Top Fine Dining β€” Barrie
OpenTable Diners' Choice β€” 2022
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Best Farm-to-Table Experience
Ontario Culinary Awards β€” 2023
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Best Wine Program
Canada's 100 Best Restaurants β€” 2024

Come Experience Our Story

Become part of the Ember & Oak family. Reserve your table or order online tonight.

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