Delta

Some days just call for a drink with a view, and Thunder Bay’s waterfront is always a good idea. This week’s stop took me to Anchor & Ore, tucked inside the Delta Hotel. Walking in, I was greeted by the bright buzz of lunchtime chatter and sunlight pouring through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Out on the marina, sailboats swayed lazily, and the water glittered like it had been sprinkled with diamonds. It’s the kind of spot where you find yourself lingering over your menu, simply because the view is too good to rush.

I arrived on a mission: to finally try their famous smoked Old Fashioned, the one where the bartender burns a wood barrel to infuse the glass. Unfortunately, I learned it’s a time-specific treat. No worries, pivoting is part of the fun. I asked the bartender for their next most popular pick, and she handed me a New York Sour.

Normally made with Crown Royal, this version featured Canadian Club thanks to a supply hiccup. The drink came together with lemon juice, simple syrup, freshly cracked egg whites (yes, right in front of me), a dried citrus slice, and a delicate float of red wine. The result was a gorgeous, layered cocktail – golden at the base, deep ruby on top, and it looked like a summer sunset trapped in a glass.

The first sip started bright and tangy from the lemon, then deepened into the rich, dry fruitiness of the wine, with just enough whiskey warmth to linger. The egg white gave it that smooth, creamy texture that makes each sip feel indulgent. It’s definitely a confident cocktail, not shy about its strength, but balanced enough to keep you sipping at an unhurried pace.

To keep things light, I went with the salt-and-pepper chicken wings. The first bite delivered a satisfying crunch, the batter airy yet full of flavour. Inside, the meat was tender and juicy, the seasoning just right. A little dunk in hot sauce added the perfect mid-day wake-up call to pair with the cocktail’s boldness.

A strong, flavourful drink, crispy wings, and a sunny waterfront view – Anchor & Ore makes a pretty convincing case for extending lunch hour just a little bit longer.

Until next time – sip boldly, savour slowly, and never pass up a great view with your lunch.