Frankies Surf Club, Muskoka

Some very happy news for all you Toronto kids (or anyone) who is lucky enough to call Muskoka your home away from home each summer. From the folks who brought you favourite tacos and bourbon joint (Grand Electric) and your favourite BBQ and beers joint (Electric Mud) comes the newly opened Frankies Surf Club in Port Carling, Muskoka.

"Part east coast beach bar, part vintage Muskoka Social Club, Frankies Surf Club offers a stylish mix of surf and cottage culture." The relaxed lakeside hangout will serve coffee, snacks and cold pressed juices, along with a killer cocktail menu inspired by the beach bars of 70s and 80s Mexico and the Caribbean. They will also be hosting various events and carrying a small selection of curated cottage-wear.

We spoke with owners Ian and Colin about what to expect from this beautiful new space:

We've noticed a real "trend" if you will, where these long-forgotten vacation spots are being modernized and re-furbished, inspired by the authentic old-school summer holiday experience of our youth and of our parent's youth.  What is it about this particular type of nostalgia that you think is so appealing to us young urbanites in particular?

Without getting too cerebral, there is a reason why these places were popular in the first place: they provide an escape from the madness of the city. 

No matter what form of music is trending, no matter what clothing styles are in for the summer, it will always be appealing to sit by the lake with a cup of coffee and unwind. 

We love getting out of the city but have always found there's a lack of cool places to eat, drink and hang out once we get there. What will Frankies bring to the Muskoka community that has perhaps been lacking until now?

Really really great coffee, a well curated clothing store with clothes that will still look fashionable when worn in the city, and of course, a huge bar with beach cocktails.

Speaking of cocktails, we're obsessed with the ones at Grand Electric! I love the Bourbonade, so perfectly simple and delicious. What's your favourite cocktail from Frankies 70s / 80s tropical beach bar inspired menu? 

I'm a huge fan of our Pina Colada - made fresh to order, with canella (Mexican cinnamon) dusted on top, it's a great way to unwind on a sunny Muskoka afternoon.

Grand Electric is known for it's killer hip-hop soundtrack. What kind of tunes can we expect to hear while chilling out at Frankies? Please please say The Beach Boys and the Dirty Dancing Soundtrack!

Haha, we've got a great selection of soul, funk, and surf rock, and yes we play the Beach Boys on occasion.

What types of events will Frankies be hosting, and can we book our wedding reception there? (Dammit, we're already married!)

We've got some concerts planned for this summer, and also host private functions, birthday parties and wedding receptions. Just email us at info@frankiessurfclub.com

What's the opening date? We will be first in line!

We opened last week. We're open every Thurs - Sun from 9 am until 1 am.

For more information and beach-life envy from your desk, follow Frankies Surf Club on Instagram , check out their website or heck just go up there and experience it for yourself! We doubt you'll be disappointed.

Road trip anyone??