For a small mountain town, Fernie offers flavours far beyond its size.
You may come for the snowy peaks, alpine trails, or cool mountain streams, but you’ll soon find yourself equally captivated by freshly baked pastries, inventive sushi, and mouth-watering steaks grilled to perfection. Meals here aren’t just stops between adventures; they’re part of the town’s charm.
Fernie has a surprisingly cosmopolitan dining scene, where coffee spots, pubs, and upscale eateries coexist on the same street. If you’re curious where to start your culinary exploration, here’s our handpicked list of must-try restaurants in Fernie.
1) Nevados – Best for Latin American Flavours
Nevados is one of the top places to eat in Fernie. Located downtown, this buzzing restaurant is known for its Latin American cuisine and tapas-inspired plates, with creative cocktails and a lively après-ski atmosphere.
People love their crispy fish tacos, savoury pork belly, and famously zesty spicy margaritas. Just remember, Nevados doesn’t take reservations, and there’s usually a line forming outside before the doors even open. If you’re eager for the sought-after patio seating, plan to arrive early or opt for a leisurely late-night dinner. Either way, it’s well worth the wait.
2) Yamagoya – Best Sushi in the Rockies
If you’re wondering where to get sushi in Fernie, Yamagoya offers some stellar Japanese fare. By early evening, it’s already humming with regulars. Locals adore this place for its crisp, feather‑light tempura, soft yam rolls, and the sashimi boat stacked with fresh salmon and tuna.
Though it has a great selection of drinks, the main attraction is always the sushi.
Plan to arrive early (especially on weekends) because the restaurant fills up fast. It’s one of the best places for dinner in Fernie for anyone craving Japanese cuisine.
3) The Loaf – Best for Artisan Breads & Brunch
The Loaf has evolved from a cosy bakery into a go‑to for Italian‑leaning comfort food, yet it still honours its roots in artisan bread. Stop by in the morning for soft cinnamon buns and a textbook eggs Benedict served on house‑made sourdough.
By midday, the wood-fired oven turns out blistered pizzas topped with fresh mozzarella and market veg. Pair your slice with a glass of red, a craft beer, or a well-made cocktail while soaking up the warm, welcoming atmosphere of this Fernie mountain town restaurant .
4) Big Bang Bagels – Best Grab-and-Go Breakfast
One of the best places for breakfast in Fernie, Big Bang Bagels has been fuelling ski days, hikes, and early morning adventures since its opening. Locals and tourists flock here for the town’s best grab-and-go morning bites.
Each morning, Big Bang serves up chewy, perfectly baked bagels piled high with fresh fillings. The standout has to be the G-Force sandwich with egg, cheese, fresh veggies, and your choice of savoury meats. If you prefer something simpler, we recommend the classic breakfast bagels with cream cheese and house-made spreads.
5) Island Lake Lodge – Best Fine Dining with a View
Island Lake Lodge takes fine dining to new heights: literally. Perched above a glass‑calm alpine lake and ringed by the Rockies, this upscale Canadian restaurant pairs stunning scenery with an equally impressive menu.
Guests can settle into the timber-framed dining room or panoramic deck, and sip on B.C. wines, expertly mixed cocktails, or local craft beers. Standout dishes include bison short ribs, pan-seared trout, and colourful seasonal vegetables.
Candle-lit tables, attentive service, and a postcard-perfect backdrop make Island Lake Lodge a favourite romantic dinner stop in Fernie. The bill sits above Fernie’s average, but the calibre of food and surroundings will leave you convinced it’s money well spent.
6) Himalayan Spice Bistro – Best Nepalese & Indian Cuisine
Himalayan Spice Bistro is tucked away on Fernie’s main street and serves some of the town’s finest Nepalese and Indian cuisine. The dining room is small, warm, and perfect for families, with staff happy to guide newcomers through the menu.
Be sure to order the butter chicken, the momos with a zesty tomato-chilli dip, and naan. There’s no alcohol here, so feel free to wash everything down with a sweet mango lassi instead.
7) The Brickhouse Bar & Grill – Best for Pub-Style Comfort Food
Housed in a former hardware store with exposed brick and vintage fittings, The Brickhouse Bar & Grill is a great spot for casual lunches or relaxed dinners that stretch late into the night.
The menu relies heavily on Canadian pub classics, but it’s the bison burger that steals the show. For something more indulgent, order the fall‑apart ribs and a pint from the rotating craft‑beer taps. Most weekends feature live bands, and on quieter nights, the place is full of skiers and locals swapping trail stories.
8) Mugshots Café – Best for Coffee & Light Bites
Mugshots Café is exactly the type of neighbourhood coffee spot you’d hope to find in a mountain town like Fernie. They offer a full menu of morning lattes, fresh muffins, or quick, tasty lunch options like wraps and sandwiches.
With reliable Wi-Fi, plenty of comfortable seating, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, Mugshots is also the best coffee shop in Fernie for remote workers. Grab a spot by the window, order your favourite drink, and soak in the mountain-town vibe before your next adventure.
9) Fernie Cattle Company – Best for Steaks
Fernie Cattle Company is a classic steakhouse that knows how to do the basics right: big portions, perfectly cooked meat, and simple, satisfying sides. The star of the menu is the juicy, tender rib-eye, seared to perfection and bursting with flavour. Pair it with a steaming baked potato and drizzle on one of their signature house-made sauces.
Although the place has a limited bar, you’ll still find a solid selection of wines and beers to complement your steak dinner. Choose this top place to eat in Fernie if you’re looking for a hearty, no-nonsense meal after a long day of exploring.
10) Beanpod Chocolate, Gelato & Coffee – Best Sweet Treats
Tourists with a sweet tooth must stop by Beanpod Chocolate, Gelato, & Coffee. Step inside, and you’re likely to catch chocolatiers tempering chocolate with a finesse that feels almost like theatre.
While the handmade chocolate bark is a local favourite, you can also treat yourself to a creamy small-batch gelato. For a true treat, try an affogato: freshly brewed espresso poured over velvety gelato
11) Bay Leaf Indian Fusion – Best Indian Restaurant in Fernie
Ask any local where to find the best Indian food in Fernie, and they’ll point you to Bay Leaf Indian Fusion at the Fernie Golf Course. The kitchen splits its line‑up into Indian, Nepalese, and Western dishes, so everyone at the table can pick something they like.
Regulars rave about the mango chicken, the tikka masala, and slow-simmered lamb curry. As a fully licensed restaurant, Bay Leaf also lets you pair your meal with a refreshing cocktail or a glass of wine from their carefully curated list.
Add warm service and a modern dining room, and Bay Leaf becomes an easy recommendation for where to eat in Fernie.
12) The Northern – Best for Craft Beer & Casual Dining
Most nights, The Northern is a laid-back pub with a lively atmosphere, hearty Canadian comfort food, and a friendly crowd of tourists and après-ski regulars. The menu is a greatest-hits list of pub classics, including juicy burgers, golden poutine smothered in gravy, and a full lineup of local craft beers.
But on certain nights, the Northern transforms into Fernie’s go-to nightlife hotspot, with visiting DJs, live bands, and a packed dance floor. Pre-sale tickets for these events are in high demand, but there are always a few reserved for door sales.
Where to Stay: Fernie Fox Hotel
After sampling Fernie’s best breakfasts, lunches, and late-night bites, you’ll want to rest somewhere just as impressive. Look no further than the Fernie Fox Hotel.
Located just minutes from downtown, our eco-friendly property offers modern amenities, spacious rooms, and pet-friendly options, all designed to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Even better, you’re only a short stroll away from all the eateries mentioned in this guide.
We have everything required to make sure you rest well between all your Fernie escapades. Learn more or book your stay with us today.
Final Thoughts
Fernie’s food scene is woven into the fabric of the town, with each bite adding another memory to your mountain adventure. Keep this Fernie restaurant guide handy and work your way through these must-try spots.
Make the most of your Fernie experience by staying at Fernie Fox Hotel. Our spacious rooms, relaxed atmosphere, and thoughtful extras ensure your stay is as unforgettable as your meals.
Ready to plan your perfect mountain escape? Give us a call at 1 (877) 447-6788 to speak with our team.
