The Palace Mexican Restaurant & Saloon

Imagine a corner of sunny Mexico in the heart of a northern city: The Palace Mexican Restaurant and Saloon is a legendary establishment that has been delighting residents and guests of Sault Ste. Marie for over a century. Located on the border between Canada and the USA, this restaurant combines the rich history of a classic American saloon with authentic Latin American flavors.

The interior transports visitors to a bygone era, thanks to the magnificent Brunswick mahogany bar, which has been preserved since the founding. Warm lighting and a comfortable setting make it an ideal spot for both a romantic date and a lively family dinner. The old-world atmosphere here is harmoniously complemented by the aromas of fresh spices and traditional Mexican cuisine.

The restaurant deservedly holds high rankings among travelers, offering guests not only classic tacos and fajitas but also its famous chili con queso. Visitors especially appreciate "The Palace" for its friendly service and huge selection of drinks, where signature margaritas of incredible sizes take center stage.

For your convenience, we have gathered the main contact information for the establishment in the table below. If you plan to visit with a large group, it is recommended to check availability in advance by phone.

The main reason to visit The Palace is, of course, the gastronomic experience. Be sure to try the signature hot chili con queso with crispy chips, which is considered one of the best appetizers here. The menu features a full variety of Mexican classics: from fragrant fajitas on a sizzling skillet to generous portions of nachos and burritos. For those who appreciate tradition, the restaurant offers authentic recipes that have remained unchanged for many years.

The bar menu deserves special mention. The Palace is famous for its margaritas, which are served in various formats—from modest glasses to huge bowls resembling fish tanks. You can sit at the magnificent mahogany bar to enjoy a cool drink and chat with the staff, who are known for their hospitality and speed of service even during peak hours.

If you are looking for a place for a quiet break, choose the cozy booths where you can spend an evening with family. The establishment is perfect for a late dinner or light snacks after a busy day. Don't forget to pay attention to the decor—every corner of the saloon is steeped in history, making a simple restaurant visit a full tourist experience.

The Palace Mexican Restaurant and Saloon is conveniently located in the heart of the city at 200 W Portage Ave. If you are already strolling through downtown or shopping at local stores, reaching the restaurant on foot is easy. It is situated in close proximity to major tourist routes and the waterfront.

For those coming from more distant areas, the most convenient way is to take a taxi or a private car. Parking spaces are available near the restaurant. Thanks to its proximity to iconic sites like the Soo Locks, the restaurant is easy to include in a day’s walk around the city.

If you prefer public transport, look for routes passing through the city's central streets. From most hotels in central Sault Ste. Marie, the saloon doors are a 10–15 minute walk away, allowing you to enjoy the atmosphere of this border city.

The history of this place began in 1903, making it one of the oldest establishments in the region. Opening as a classic early 20th-century saloon, The Palace has become a true legend, surviving decades of change while preserving its unique character. Over its century-long history, it has had only a few owners, which has helped maintain a continuity of tradition.

One of the main historical treasures of the interior is the original bar, made of Brunswick mahogany. This majestic piece of furniture remembers the very first visitors from the beginning of the last century and still serves as the hall's centerpiece. The building's old-world charm, combined with cozy booths, creates a sense of traveling back in time.

Since 1981, management of the restaurant passed to Bonnie Krempel, who has put much effort into ensuring the establishment stays true to its roots. Despite adding popular American dishes, the restaurant has maintained its commitment to the authentic Mexican recipes that once brought it fame. Today, it is not just a place for lunch, but an important part of the city's cultural heritage, which locals affectionately call the "heart of the Soo."

For a standard visit, including a full lunch or dinner and a tasting of signature drinks, you will need about 1–2 hours. This is plenty of time to enjoy the cuisine and admire the details of the vintage interior.

If you decide to drop by the saloon in the evening to spend time at the bar and try the famous margaritas of various sizes with friends, your stay might be longer. The atmosphere of the establishment encourages leisurely conversation, so many guests prefer to spend the entire evening here.

The restaurant operates on a convenient schedule from Tuesday to Saturday, allowing guests to stop by for either lunch or a late dinner. Please note that on Mondays and Sundays, the establishment is closed.

Current schedule: Tuesday to Thursday, the doors are open from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM. On Friday, hours are extended until 10:00 PM, and on Saturday, the restaurant welcomes guests from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM. It is recommended to plan your visit with these hours in mind, as the place is very popular.

The restaurant's location in the historic center makes it easy to combine a delicious meal with a tour of local attractions. A walk through the surrounding area will reveal the region's rich heritage, from engineering masterpieces to memorials dedicated to indigenous cultures.