The Thorndyke Dining Room - Grand Bank

We would have loved to eat here. From the reviews it sounds excellent, and the two ladies who run it are both charming. But alas, George, the owner and chef, was away in St Johns, and we were only in Newfoundland for two nights. So, no luck! But on our next visit, let's hope....

It is a rarity to find a restaurant like this in a small town like Grand Bank. During our three nights in the area, we dined at this restaurant twice and regret not dining there every night. The dinner was delicious and reasonably priced. Though the wine list and menu are not extensive, they have been curated with care. The wine selection offered good choices and our meals were excellent. Unfortunately, we were too full for dessert. The staff were friendly and the chef made sure everything met our satisfaction. Housed in an old merchant's home, the restaurant exudes charm. Its location in town makes Grand Bank the perfect base for exploring the Burin Peninsula. Rumor has it that the owner may be opening a pub in another location in Grand Bank, which would be a great addition to the town. We wish him success in his future endeavors.

We ate dinner here and had a nice chat with George, the owner that is really committed to making a first class operation in Grand Bank. The dinner of Peach BBQ pork tenderloin was excellent as was the rest of the meal. Unfortunately, we were unable to stay at the B&B itself, but it looks like it will be a great spot in town.

Thorndyke Dining Room is set in a period house overlooking the ocean. The menu is small but everything is cooked fresh and Chef George is brilliant. We had pork medallions in the most delicious peach bbq sauce I would have purchased a gallon of it if I could. His desserts change every day and they are amazing. While we were waiting for our meal we were treated to humpback whales breeching in front of the restaurant. It would be worth coming to Grand Bank just to eat here.

The chef, who recently located to this area, is very attuned to the bounty of Newfoundland, and accomplished in the flavorful use of seasonal local ingredients, both seafood and vegetable. He and the entire staff are extremely attentive, and offer a range of options for starters and mains, with generous portions. It's located in a historic home on the waterfront overlooking the sea. This is fine dining in a small town with few other options.