Ossawippi Signage

Come and relax; savour a meal without being rushed, spend some quality time in a historical railway setting where every meal is made fresh, never prepackaged.

Ossawippi Express Dining Cars offers a genuine experience in fine dining. We offer a unique experience for birthdays, anniversaries, engagements, weddings, bus tours and business meetings.

Our summertime outside dining deck overlooks beautiful Lake Couchiching, a gorgeous view no matter what the season.

In our main dining car we can seat up to 48 people. Our other large dining car is divided into 3 private rooms holding groups of 2-4, 16 and 12 people. We also have a private dining room that is ideal for business meetings. This room can seat up to 54 people, 30 if the overhead projection screen is required. Private dining rooms and specific seating should be reserved in advance.

Whether it be lunch, dinner or dessert, our friendly staff will keep your dining experience on track.

Our Train

About Us

Terry and the train…

It was love at first sight; he did not see the shape the cars were in, he only saw a destination dining treasure. He also saw the opportunity to offer fine cuisine with atmosphere to the good folks from Orillia and the surrounding area.

Born in Quebec, Terry moved to Toronto where he earned a BA in Business at York University and took a diploma course in Hotel and Restaurant Management at Georgian College. Terry worked in some of the finest restaurants in Quebec and Ontario. For the past 28 years, Terry has taught at Georgian Collage in the Hotel and Resort Management/Culinary Arts programs. Terry continues to teach there part time sharing his wealth of experience to young entrepreneurs.

In 1992 Terry purchased the Ossawippi Express (which has been operating since 1972).

About the Chef…

Of course, a great restaurant is more than atmosphere and Chef Chris Buurs makes sure that he and his team give you the best of a blend of Continental and Canadian cuisine.
Chef Buurs is a graduate of Fanshawe College in London, Ontario. He has worked under many international Chefs and at some five star resorts and restaurants such as The Ben Miller Inn, and the Historic Muskoka Windermere House. He has come aboard to bring his culinary styles to the tables of our guests. A delicious array of mouthwatering appetizers, soups, entrees and glorious desserts are waiting for you.

Is it the love of the train or the food that brings people back?
The food is fabulous and well worth the drive. The allure of the train brings back memories for some; exploration for others and just a unique opportunity to enjoy a good time together.