THE ALPHORN

No top-rated food but good fun and a Collingwood staple...

This small Swiss restaurant, established in the early ‘80s, located in between Collingwood and Blue Mountain is a staple for winter regulars and holiday skiers. Welcoming both families and a rowdy 19-30 yr. old crowd, The Alphorn has a little something for everyone; a decent bar occupying one half and an approx. 50 seat restaurant on the other half.

The atmosphere at the Alphorn is what I’m sure, keeps most people coming back (although they really should ask for ID when someone claims it’s their birthday – it gets annoying). With classic chalet tables and a fantastic collection of memorabilia (autographed bibs and skis from famous racers, currency from all over the world, and other unique collector items like the 5 foot long watches) the restaurant provides a cozy feeling that I’m sure replicates a Swiss Alps equivalent. All that said, there is no question that the big attraction at The Alphorn is the unique copper bar that carries an extensive wine list, but most importantly, its “Beers of the World” passport, offering 40 different types, along with a featured “Beer of the Week”.

With printed ‘passports’, clientele are encouraged to write their name on an individual passport and check-off each beer that they drink (subsequently filing their passport for next time). It is also worth mentioning the giant blow horn and various bells that occupy the restaurant. Although the horn is just for fun, ring a small bell located above your table and you buy a round of shots for your table or, ding the large bell in the middle of the restaurant, and you’re on tap for an approx. $500 shot tab, having committed to buying the entire bar a shot.

While the atmosphere is pretty damn cool and certainly fun (assuming you can ignore the arrogant J. Crew and Abercrombie posse), the food is good but mediocre compared to Toronto options. The house specialty is wiener schnitzel (named the best in Canada by Ski Canada magazine; I would have to disagree) and other favourites include cheese and beef fondue (great cheese but in dire need of proper, fresh, bread for dipping), trout, steaks, and a number of traditional Swiss appetizers (raclette, buednerfleisch, and hearts of palm salad).

All in all, The Alphorn is a great alternative to the Kelsey's, Boston Pizza and other chain restaurants in Collingwood. Although I'm convinced that a few small (and easy) improvements to its fare could take this restaurant to the next level; I really enjoyed my first experience experience at The Alphorn and would recommend checking it out, at least once...

Recommendation: First pint (Erdinger ), second pint (Paulaner Weisse) , cheese fondue for the table, hearts of palm salad for the table and an individual portion of Schnitzel covered in cheese and peameal bacon. Note – Be careful in the parking lot as most of the local skiers do not understand the dangers of drinking and driving).



Hours: Varies with the Season (see website)
Address: HWY. 26 West, Collingwood, Ontario (705-445-8882)
Price: $70 for two including tax and tip. (Two Pints, Shared Cheese Fondue, Shared Salad, Shared Schnitzel)
Website: http://www.alphornrestaurant.com/