It’s remarkable how Gravenhurst calms down after October. There’s less cars along the main strip, the queue in front of the bakery disappears, and lunch at the Muskoka Bay Resort can be a private dining experience. Yes, on a Saturday lunch, we had the place to ourselves. Now that’s luxury.

Being the only table that a restaurant is focused on has major perks. The centre table by their expansive windows was set to provide us with maximum sunlight. But, of course, if we didn’t like all the sun we had our pick of other tables. The water was set, we could take as much time as needed, and we could order drinks in batches to quench the thirst of those who already knew what they wanted. Indecisive guests be damned.

The food was also very fresh. From the scalding hot fries that came with the Carrick smash burger ($24), which were perfectly seasoned and had that balance of crispiness and fluffy centre. The double patty burger was also executed well, the meat pressed thinly but still moist and delicate with little crunchy bits. Soft sesame bun, cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, shredded lettuce, tomato, and pickles finished it off. It was one of the best smashed burgers I’ve encountered.

While the ciabatta bun of the prime rib steak sandwich ($25) could have been fresher, the thin steak filet was still pink in the centre and the handheld full of flavour from the horseradish aioli, caramelized onion, and arugula. Arriving with a generous cup of au jus, the salty and thick dip wasn’t needed, but paired perfectly with the fries as it was essentially gravy. Even the side garden salad was zhuzhhed up with candied walnuts, cranberries, and goat cheese.

Maybe visiting the Muskoka Bay Resort is best after the summer rush. It was the perfect opportunity to enjoy an attentive and relaxing lunch. And to take up the entire Cliffside resort for a private lunch.