THUNDER BAY — Starting next month, visitors to the Thunder Bay Country Market on the CLE grounds will be able to dine on Hoito pancakes and other popular menu items from the famous Bay Street restaurant.
The Finlandia Co-operative of Thunder Bay Inc. has signed an agreement with the market to become its kitchen vendor.
For the first time since the Hoito closed its doors due to a fire in December 2021, authentic Hoito pancakes and select menu items will be available every Wednesday evening and Saturday morning during the regular country market hours.
Both eat-in and takeout service will be provided.
The co-op remains committed to reopening the Hoito at its original location, but president Paula Haapanen says operating a satellite location in the CLE's Dove Building will accelerate the timeline.
"Our goal when forming the Finlandia Co-operative was to keep the Hoito Restaurant running and to preserve the history of this important Thunder Bay culinary and cultural institution," Haapanen said. "The opportunity to be a part of the Thunder Bay Country Market is a great fit."
April Mercier manages the country market. She said they're excited to be able to offer a dining area again, with more options for customers to enjoy breakfast and dinner right at the market.
"We can't wait to welcome back the morning breakfast and lunch crowds," Mercier said. "Welcoming a big vendor like the Hoito into the market is a big win for everyone."
The exact date for the start of the new service will be announced as soon as it's confirmed.
